Why Networking Matters (Even When You’re Not Job Hunting)

When people think of networking, they often picture job seekers armed with CVs, scanning LinkedIn or heading to events with one aim: to land their next role.

But the truth is, the best time to build your network isn’t when you need it most, it’s long before that moment arrives.

According to LinkedIn around 85% of jobs are filled through networking, while only a fraction of roles ever makes it to the open job market. Even more telling, candidates who come through referrals are hired faster and stay longer.

So, whether you’re happily settled in your role or not even considering a move, here’s why networking still deserves a place on your to-do list.

The Long Game: Why Networking Before You Need It Pays Off

Opportunities are often hidden

Not every role is advertised, especially in tight-knit regions like Norfolk and Suffolk where word of mouth carries real weight. Staying visible in your network means you’re more likely to hear about opportunities early sometimes before they’re even formally created.

Reputation builds over time

Networking isn’t about a quick win. It’s about steadily building trust, credibility, and relationships that people remember. When you’re consistently present whether at a local event, on LinkedIn, or by checking in with a past colleague you’re planting seeds that can bear fruit months or years later.

Support and perspective

Beyond jobs, networking gives you access to advice, new ideas, and shared experiences. Talking to people outside your day-to-day circle can spark solutions you hadn’t considered, or give you reassurance that others are facing similar challenges.

The East of England Factor

In our region, our business communities are tight, and reputation matters. Local employers often know each other well, and recommendations carry serious influence.

This makes authentic networking even more important. You don’t need to “work the room” or hand out business cards simply showing up, supporting others, and being part of conversations can be enough to make sure you’re remembered in the right way.

How to Network Authentically (Without Feeling Awkward)

1. Stay connected online

   Platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable, but the key is consistency. Comment thoughtfully on posts, share insights, and celebrate others’ successes. It shows you’re engaged without being pushy.

   
   

2. Keep in touch with past colleagues

   Drop a line every so often not to ask for anything, just to say hello. A short message can be enough to keep relationships alive.

   
   

3. Get involved locally

   Business forums, chamber events, and community meet-ups in East Anglia are full of people worth knowing. Attend with the mindset of learning and connecting, not just talking about yourself.

   
   

4. Give before you get

   Share an article, introduce someone to a useful contact, or offer your perspective. Networking that’s grounded in generosity always comes back around.

Shifting the Mindset

Networking is often seen as transactional, but the reality is something very different: it’s about curiosity, connection, and contribution. If you start when you don’t “need” anything, you’ll find it much easier to be genuine and when the day comes that you do want a change, you’ll already have a strong web of support in place. It’s not about collecting contacts; it’s about cultivating relationships that make work (and life) richer.

Final Thought

You don’t have to be job hunting to invest in your network. In fact, building those relationships now is what makes transitions easier, opportunities more visible, and your professional life more rewarding in the long run.

At Michelle Denny Recruitment, we encourage all our candidates to nurture their networks because careers are built on connections as much as they are on CVs.

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