How to Network on LinkedIn to Land a Job in 4 Steps

In today’s job market, networking isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Think of LinkedIn as your digital networking hub. It’s more effective than cold applications because it helps you build meaningful relationships that support long-term career growth, get insider insights on potential employers, and gain referrals and advocates who can vouch for you.

During our recent Coach Connect Live session hosted by Eloïse Eonnet, leadership coach and director of Coach Connect, The Muse and Fairygodboss career coach Matt Ford shared his signature four-step networking process on how to use LinkedIn to expand your network and land new opportunities. 

Here’s how to make LinkedIn work for you. (Watch the recording to hear more on this topic and get to know Matt Ford!)

1. Structure your search

This is a part of the job search process that you control entirely. A little organization can make networking more efficient, but it also feels great, and gives you the opportunity to celebrate milestones along the way and boost your mental wellbeing as you search.

• Use a tracker. Keep a simple Google Sheet or Excel file with target companies, key contacts, and follow-ups. Other tools like Asana or Monday.com can also be helpful. 

• Set goals. Aim to reach out to a set number of people per week (e.g., 25) to stay consistent.

• Stay focused. Batch your target companies by level of priority in order to stay on target and to make deeper connections over time.

2. Conduct smart outreach

The best connections are intentional, not random. Look for:

• Relevance: Professionals in your field or recruiters at your target companies.

• Connectivity: Active LinkedIn users who are more likely to engage.

• Common ground: Alumni, former colleagues, shared interests—anything to establish rapport.

Pro tips: How to reach out

• Skip InMail. Instead, send a personalized connection request. If not, chances are they won’t see your message. 

• Be specific. Mention a shared interest or ask a thoughtful question about their work.

• Make it easy. Suggest a quick 15–20-minute chat, so it’s easy for them to say yes.

3. Make the most of a networking call

Once they agree to chat, preparation is key:

• Do your research. Don’t ask questions you could answer with a quick Google search.

• Guide the conversation. Have an agenda and focus on valuable insights.

• Expand your network. Ask if they can introduce you to someone else in the industry.

4. Follow up and maintain relationships

• Be persistent. Many responses come after a second or third follow-up. Keep it polite and concise.

• Send a thank-you message. Express appreciation and reference key takeaways from your conversation. This leaves you on great footing to pick the conversation up later.

• Stay in touch. Engage with their LinkedIn content or share occasional updates.

Final takeaway

Networking isn’t just about your next job—it’s about building long-term professional relationships. Rejections happen, but consistency pays off. By following these steps, anyone—regardless of experience or existing connections—can use LinkedIn to open doors and advance their career. And watch the recording to hear more on this topic and get to know Matt Ford!