Networking: tips to help your career
Networking is a great way to find out about jobs or get information, advice and support.
Here’s some guidance to help you build and use your network to your advantage.
People in your network
You probably have more people in your network than you think. Your network can be informal and include people you know in your personal life
People in your network that can help you with your career include:
- your friends and family
- people you know from work, school, college or university
- people you know from volunteering, work experience or an internship
- recruiters and employers
- people you know on social media
- members of clubs or teams you're in
Benefits of networking
The people in your network can help you:
- find out about jobs, apprenticeships or training schemes
- learn about a career or company
- get recommended for a job or grow your reputation
- find out how to get work experience
- get advice and support
Getting started
Networking can feel intimidating at the start. If you feel nervous or shy, ask the person you’re talking to a question about themselves. It takes the pressure off you and shows that you're interested in them.
Always follow up networking with an action. If you're given a name to contact, do it. Following up shows people that you’re motivated, confident and keen.
Asking your network for advice
One of the biggest ways your network can help is by giving you information and advice.
You can ask members of your network:
- if they know someone who works in the career you’re interested in
- whether they know anyone who is currently hiring
- the best ways to look for vacancies
- how they got their job
Be clear about what you want and start by asking for something small and realistic. The easier you make it for them, the more likely they are to help you.
Helping other people
Networking works both ways. It’s a good idea to show that you also have something to offer.
For example, if you see someone asking for advice, offer to help them if you can. It could be as simple as sending them a link to an article online.
Online networking
Online networking is a good way to meet people, especially if you’re nervous about doing it in person.
You can find people to connect with online on social media, LinkedIn, community forums or special interest groups.
These places help you build your network, develop a reputation for being helpful and show you're good at what you do.
Events for networking
You could build up your network by going to events such as:
- careers and job fairs
- industry events, talks and conferences
- college open days
- specialist events
- self employed or business workshops
You can check for networking events near you on social media or in your local library.
Related content
Speak to an adviser
You can call 0800 100 900 or use webchat to speak to an adviser.
We're open:
- 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday
- 10am to 5pm Saturdays and bank holidays
We're closed on Sundays, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.