How to land a job through networking: What college students need to know

By Jasmine Escalera, PhD, Career Expert, MyPerfectResume

In an era of AI, online tools, and automated hiring systems running the job-search show, it can be easy to stay behind the screen and hard to see the value of building human connections to land your next role. However, human connections remain the number one way to land any new opportunity, even your first job. According to MyPerfectResume’s Networking Nation Report, more than half of workers say they’ve landed a job through a personal or professional connection, making networking the single most powerful tool in the job search.

And yet, most job seekers, including college students, don’t use it nearly enough. The same report found that only 1 in 10 job seekers reach out to multiple contacts each week, even though consistent outreach dramatically increases the chances of landing a role. Why? I can probably guess the reason: networking feels uncomfortable. Many students worry they’re bothering people, don’t know what to say, or feel like they don’t have a “real” network yet.

But here’s the truth: you already have a network and it’s powerful. Learning how to use it can change the entire trajectory of your career. Below is an easy-to-follow guide (including a networking schedule) that will help you network with confidence and intention so you can land any job now and throughout your future career.

Why Networking Works (Better Than Everything Else)

When it comes to job searching, connections beat every other tool. In fact, 32% of workers say personal connections were the most helpful in their job search, and 28% cited professional connections as the most helpful, according to resume builder MyPerfectResume. What this means is simple: connections are gold, and that common myth of “I just need to apply to more jobs,” needs to be discarded. Applications alone aren’t enough because, in many cases, your resume is competing with hundreds of others. Networking gets you into conversations that applications simply can’t.

Boosting Your Networking Mindset

Even with all the benefits, 34% of workers say lack of confidence is the main barrier preventing them from networking. Students often assume they don’t have enough experience to reach out or that they aren’t “worthy” of someone’s time. But networking isn’t about asking for favors. It’s about building relationships long before you need them. Here are two mindset shifts students can adopt right now to boost their confidence and become empowered networkers ASAP:

1. Your network is bigger than you think.
You do have a network, so stop telling yourself it doesn’t exist. Your network includes (but isn’t limited to):

• Friends
• Professors
• Classmates
• Alumni
• Internship supervisors
• Coaches, mentors, and club advisors
• Anyone you’ve had a positive interaction with

These connections count. And many of them want to help you. Sit down right now and list out people in these categories you could reach out to for job-search support or even general career advice.

2. You don’t have to reach out to dozens of people.
Most workers who find jobs through networking don’t have massive networks or huge LinkedIn followings. They simply rely on trusted people they know. People who genuinely want to see them succeed. So if you think you need a huge, mighty following, know that this is absolutely not the case. A few strong, trusted connections can be more powerful than hundreds of weak ones.

How Students Can Network Effectively (Without Feeling Awkward)

Networking doesn’t have to mean forced conversations at events or cold messaging strangers. Try these simple and comfortable strategies instead:

1. Start with the people you know.
Because friends and colleagues are the most common sources of referrals, begin with:

• Classmates who interned somewhere interesting
• Professors who know people in your field
• Alumni from your school’s career center or LinkedIn page

Kickstart a conversation with a simple, effective message: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [field]. I’d love to hear about your experience at [company/industry]. Would you be open to a 15-minute chat?”

2. Use your school’s alumni network.
Alumni remember what it was like to be in your shoes, and many would enjoy the chance to help a student. Especially because someone once helped them, too.

3. Attend events with purpose.
Your college or university likely hosts career fairs, employer info sessions, and student club events. These are easy openings for conversation. Show up prepared with:

• One question about the industry you’re interested in
• One question about the person’s role or your dream job after graduation
• A curious, engaged attitude to create meaningful conversations

4. Follow up and keep the relationship warm.
A quick thank-you message after a conversation sets you apart. Especially because many people neglect this step. Once you have a good connection, stay in touch by sharing updates on your studies, internships, volunteer work, or career questions.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals.
Learning to feel comfortable asking for a referral is so key in the networking process. Try this chill approach to make it happen: “I’ve been applying to roles in [field/company], and I’m wondering if you’d feel comfortable referring me or connecting me with someone on the team.”

A Networking Plan Any Student Can Start This Week

If you want to make networking a habit instead of an afterthought, try this simple plan:

Weekly:

• Reach out to one person you know
• Engage with one alum on LinkedIn
• Attend one campus event or virtual talk

Monthly:

• Ask one person for a quick informational conversation
• Update one mentor or professor on your progress

Each semester:

• Add new contacts from classes, internships, or clubs
• Send thank-you notes to people who helped you

Final Takeaway: Don’t Wait Until You Need a Job to Start Connecting

Nearly 60% of workers say they reach out to only a few close contacts, or no one at all, during their job search, even though networking is the most effective strategy they could be using.

Don’t make the same mistake.

Someone you know right now could have the power to connect you to your next great job opportunity. Start networking today, and know that it’s okay to start small. Even small networking steps build not just momentum for you, but also trust with your connections. And remember: the goal of networking isn’t to collect contacts. It’s to build relationships that support you throughout your entire career.