Networking
How to build connections that open doors without feeling awkward or transactional.
Why networking works
Recruiters receive hundreds of applications for every graduate role. They can't review them all thoroughly. Referrals solve this problem.
When someone internally recommends you, you bypass the initial filter. Forbes has highlighted that referrals often move candidates out of the online application queue and into direct consideration.
How recruiters actually shortlist candidates:
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Internal referrals get reviewed first
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Alumni networks and personal connections are prioritised
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Cold applications are filtered by ATS and keyword matches
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Remaining candidates are reviewed if time allows
This isn't favouritism. Referrals reduce hiring risk. If someone stakes their reputation on you, recruiters trust that signal.
What networking is (and is not)
Networking is NOT:
Asking strangers for a job
Spamming recruiters with generic messages
Being insincere or transactional
Treating people as tools to get what you want
Effective networking IS:
Learning from people in roles you want
Becoming a recognisable, low-risk name
Creating optionality without pressure
Building genuine professional relationships
Think of networking as research with a human element. You're gathering information and building relationships that might help both parties in future.
Who to reach out to
Focus on people who can actually help you understand the role and process.
People 1–5 years ahead of you
Recent graduates remember the process. They're more likely to respond and give practical advice.
Alumni from your university
Shared background creates instant common ground. Alumni networks exist for this.
People in the role you want
They understand day-to-day reality no job description gives you.
People whose path you respect
Genuine interest comes through. Don't reach out just for prestige.
Avoid targeting recruiters as your primary outreach
They're busy and less likely to engage in informational conversations. Focus on people doing the actual job.
The five-sentence outreach framework
This structure balances professionalism with approachability.
1. A specific, genuine compliment
Shows you've done research. Mention a specific project, article or career move.
Why it works: Demonstrates genuine interest, not spam
2. A clear connection or shared context
Alumni status, shared interest, mutual connection or similar background.
Why it works: Reduces the 'stranger danger' factor
3. A direct but polite reason for reaching out
State clearly what you're hoping to learn. Specific requests get better responses.
Why it works: Clarity shows respect for their time
4. An explicit low-pressure 'out'
Acknowledge they're busy. Make it easy to decline. This increases response rates.
Why it works: Removes obligation, reduces guilt from ignoring
5. A simple, clear next step
Suggest a 15-minute call or brief email response. Make it easy to say yes.
Why it works: Reduces decision friction, makes action clear
Sample message template
"Hi [Name], I came across your profile whilst researching [Company] and was particularly impressed by your work on [specific project]. I'm a final-year [Subject] student at [University] and noticed we both studied at [shared context]. I'm exploring graduate roles in [industry] and would really value your perspective on what the day-to-day is like. I completely understand if you're too busy. If you do have 15 minutes for a quick call, I'd be grateful."
Common mistakes to avoid
✗ Long messages
✓ Keep under 150 words. Brief and scannable wins.
✗ Generic compliments
✓ "I admire your company" is meaningless. Reference something specific.
✗ Asking for a referral immediately
✓ Build rapport first. Referrals happen naturally after good conversations.
✗ Messaging too senior too early
✓ Partners and VPs rarely respond to cold messages. Start closer to your stage.
✗ Treating it as a numbers game
✓ 5 personalised messages outperform 50 generic ones.
LinkedIn Outreach
Connect with professionals on LinkedIn
Coffee Chats
15-minute informal conversations
Referrals
How to earn genuine referrals
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