Customizing Networking Approaches

My networking approach was all wrong. Now, I lead with value. Ever notice how most people network backward? They lead with "what can I get" instead of "what can I give." Here's a relationship-building framework that works: → Start with deep research (not just a profile skim) → Craft personalized value upfront → Focus on their wins, not your pitch The real magic happens in the execution: Research deeper than others: → Study their content history → Identify specific challenges → Spot opportunities they might have missed Then craft your outreach with intention: → Reference their work (show you've done the homework) → Share actionable insights they can use today → Make the next step clear but optional Here's why this works: You're treating connections like relationships, not transactions. When you lead with genuine value, you stand out in a sea of "let's connect" messages. The results? Higher response rates, meaningful conversations, and relationships that last.

A senior cloud architect sent me a connection request last week with this message: "I'm interested in roles at AWS. Do you have any openings that fit my background?" No context. No relationship.  And no research into the roles I might work on. I see versions of this 30–40 times a week. And I know the intent is good — people are trying to follow the advice they're given: "Network to land your next role." The problem? Most people are confusing outreach with networking. After a decade in technical recruiting, I've noticed a clear pattern: The people who land roles faster aren't sending more DMs. They've built visibility before they ever hit send. Here's what commonly shows up in my inbox: "I recently interviewed — can you follow up?" "Do you have 15 minutes for a coffee chat?" "I'm seeking a Solutions Architect role." People are taking action. That's not the issue. The issue is that recruiters and hiring managers get dozens of these messages daily — all from people they don't know. At that volume, it's almost impossible to know how to help. At the senior level, transactional networking rarely turns into opportunity. Sound familiar? So what does strategic networking actually look like? It's less about who you message — and more about who already recognizes your name when you do. Here are five true networking approaches I’d recommend to senior-level tech professionals: 1️⃣ Engage in tech-specific LinkedIn groups  This creates one-to-many visibility. Hiring managers and recruiters are often in the same spaces — credibility builds through contribution. 2️⃣ Comment meaningfully on posts from leaders in your space  Skip "Great post." Add perspective based on experience. Do this consistently and your name starts showing up in the right feeds. 3️⃣ Share insights from your own work  You don't need thought-leadership essays. A poll about a challenge you're navigating. A short reflection on a lesson learned. Even adding your take to someone else's post. The goal is visibility, not virality. 4️⃣ Write recommendations for former teammates  In addition to helping a teammate out, your name will appear on their profile. This is passive visibility that compounds. 5️⃣ Engage with hiring managers before messaging them  Comment on what they share. When you eventually reach out, you're not a stranger — you're familiar. I've seen this shift change the trajectory of job searches. Not because someone's resume suddenly improved — but because the right people already knew who they were before a role opened. 👉 Which of these five are you already doing or planning to start? Drop the number below. And if someone in your network is in search mode, feel free to share this with them.

An important networking approach that I really appreciate is the Double Opt-In. It's simple, it's caring, and it leads to better results for everyone involved. Too often in networking conversations, we suggest that a person should meet one of our contacts. Then we blindside our other contact with an email connecting them to a stranger. And the person receiving it is a bit confused, or quietly pressured, by the email. A simple fix to this is: instead of emailing immediately, sending an opt-in email first. Where you ask your contact if they’d be open to chatting with this person, and share why you think it could be valuable. This gives them a real opportunity to say no if they’re truly busy, or to say yes with clarity and intention. And if they say yes, they’re already warmed up to the idea and understand the context before the intro even happens. This reduces ghosting, awkward conversations, and forced-feeling meetings. It also starts the conversation on the right ground: mutual interest, clear expectations, and respect for each other’s time. It’s more work for the connector. But it shows significantly more care. And that care creates real benefits: stronger trust in you, higher follow-through, and introductions that actually turn into meaningful relationships.

🌟 Networking Approach 🌟 I wanted to take a moment to share some insights on networking etiquette, particularly when it comes to seeking referrals for roles within a company. While I always appreciate the initiative and enthusiasm in connecting, I've noticed a trend of direct messages from individuals I haven't previously interacted with, requesting referrals for positions. While this approach might seem straightforward, allow me to shed some light on why it might not be the most efficient method: 1️⃣ Lack of Context: if we don't know each other, it's not possible for me to gauge your qualifications, experiences, and how you might align with the roles you're seeking referrals for. Providing context and establishing a relationship beforehand can significantly increase the effectiveness of your request. For example, showcase how your experience and previous work would be a great fit for the role you have in mind. 2️⃣ Building Relationships: Networking is all about building meaningful professional connections and relationships. Taking the time to engage with someone, whether through comments on posts, sharing insights, or even a brief introductory message, lays the foundation for a more genuine and mutually beneficial relationship. The more you interact with the content or the interests of your targeted networking folks the easier will be to find common ground to build from. 3️⃣ Quality Over Quantity: Instead of casting a wide net and reaching out to numerous individuals with generic messages, focus on quality interactions with a few key contacts. Know your audience! Invest time in understanding their background, interests, and expertise, and offer value in return. Often times these practices might have a counterproductive effect, so try this instead: ✅ Engage Authentically: Like and comment on the individuals in your network posts, share relevant insights, and initiate conversations based on common interests or experiences. Boost or give a kudos to a colleague launching or sharing good news, these go a long way! ✅ Personalize Your Outreach: When you're ready to request a referral, personalize your message to the individual you're reaching out to. Mention specific reasons why you admire their work or how you believe your skills could complement their company. Prove their ROI by having you and have fun being creative! ✅ Offer Value: Networking is a two-way street. Consider how you can offer value to your connections, whether it's sharing industry insights, counsel, advice, offering to connect them with relevant contacts, or providing support in their professional endeavors. Let's strive to make our networking interactions more meaningful and impactful. Building genuine relationships within our network not only enhances our professional growth but also fosters a supportive community where we can learn and grow together. I'm looking forward to engaging with you all more deeply and meaningfully!

Don't be Lame - Tailor Your Networking Approach for Maximum Impact Not all networking situations are the same, and that’s why it’s so important to tailor your approach depending on the event or person you’re connecting with. When you adapt your strategy, you create more meaningful interactions that lead to stronger relationships and better opportunities. Here are 6 steps to tailor your networking approach: 1️⃣ Research Ahead of Time: Before attending an event or meeting someone, do your homework. Learn about their role, interests, and the industry. This will help you ask thoughtful questions and create a deeper connection. 2️⃣ Adjust Your Tone and Conversation Style: Different settings call for different communication styles. In professional settings, stay focused on business topics, while in casual settings, feel free to share more about your personal interests. 3️⃣ Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Tailor your introduction to highlight the most relevant parts of your experience depending on the event and who you're talking to. 4️⃣ Focus on Their Needs: In smaller, intimate settings, focus on how you can help the other person. Offer value based on their specific challenges or needs. 5️⃣ Follow the Event’s Energy: Large events may require quick, surface-level conversations, while smaller gatherings allow for deeper discussions. Match the energy of the environment. 6️⃣ Be Authentic & Flexible: Always stay true to yourself but be flexible in how you engage with different people. The more adaptable you are, the easier it will be to build real connections. 💬 When you tailor your approach, networking becomes a two-way street—where both parties benefit and grow. Start adapting your strategy and see how much stronger your connections become! 🌟 #NetworkingTips #TailoredNetworking #BuildConnections #CareerGrowth #RelationshipBuilding #NetworkingSuccess

Smart networking in Cybersecurity is personal, purposeful, and strategic. Here’s what works, plus sample outreach scripts. When I started out, I made the same mistake of sending generic outreach messages. All I got was silence. It wasn’t until I changed my approach and focused on quality, personalisation, and value that I started building relationships that led to real opportunities. I’ve tested this and seen it consistently work. Recruiters I’ve spoken with say they always notice candidates who reach out with research and clarity, rather than generic messages. This approach has helped me land several interviews and referrals. Here’s what works and what I still practice today: ➡️ 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘆: Focus on meaningful connections. ➡️ 𝗗𝗼 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵: Before reaching out, learn about them, look at what they’re currently hiring for or working on, articles or posts they’ve written, projects they’ve contributed to, or panels they’ve spoken on. Knowing what they do and what they care about allows you to engage meaningfully. ➡️ 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵: Use what you’ve learned about them to tailor your message. Be clear about why you’re reaching out. Instead of a generic ask, connect your request to something specific they can relate to. Referencing something specific shows you are intentional and have done your homework. Drop your best networking tip in the comments and share this post with your network to help others connect smarter.