How to Network with Hiring Managers on LinkedIn

With the emergence of different types of AI technology for hiring and job searching, it’s becoming even more important to nail down your networking skills. Increased access to tools that make applying easier for job seekers means an absurd increase in applications and it puts an even higher value on job search strategies – like networking – to avoid the people pile-up. You’re capable of networking with hiring managers on LinkedIn (and getting responses) even if you’re an introvert, don’t know what to say, or feel awkward asking for favors.

How, you ask? By leveraging LinkedIn’s bells and whistles.

Now, you may be one of those people who are networking-averse (introvert + socially awkward, anyone?🙋🏻‍♀️ I’m preaching to myself, here) But do you really truly understand everything networking can do for your job search and career? All I’m saying is don’t knock it until you’ve tried it this way. 

Because when I first started working with job seekers, networking was not even a strategy on my radar. But now that I’ve had a few years to apply it in a smart way in my business, plus, learned the data behind how much easier it makes searching… let’s just say it’s grown on me. 

If you’re curious as to what networking on LinkedIn can do for your job search, if you’re ready to get started networking or if you just want to see what all the fuss is about… keep reading! I’m showing you a few simple ways to incorporate networking into your job search using LinkedIn. 

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The Power of Professional Connections

Before we dive into specific strategies, let’s talk about why networking on LinkedIn needs to be a priority. You know I’m all about the numbers, so here’s what the data says… more than 70% of professionals get hired at a company where they have a professional connection.  Then there’s a recent study in Harvard Business Review where more than 60% of successful job seekers reported that someone they had worked with in the past helped them find their next job.

But it gets even more interesting. Another Harvard Business Review article, this one written for hiring managers shared the most popular channel for finding new hires is through employee referrals.

The above data drives home the importance of not just building a network, but actively engaging with it. Your next job opportunity will likely come through someone you know – or someone they know!

Now, let’s dive into how you can leverage LinkedIn to build and nurture these pivotal professional relationships.

1. Master the LinkedIn Search Bar to Network with Hiring Managers

The search bar is your secret weapon for finding the right recruiters, hiring managers, and decision-makers. Here’s how to wield it:

• To find a recruiter: Type “recruiter + [company name]”
• To find a hiring manager: Search for the job title one level above your target position, e.g., “VP of Marketing + [company name]”
• Use the “People also viewed” section on the right on the page to expand your search

You can also type in the job title alone in the search bar, then click the “Filters” button which will open up the filtering option on the right side of the page. You can scroll down to the “Company” filter and type in your target company’s name and run the search. This will pull up any recruiters, talent acquisition team members or decision-makers depending on which search you’ve run. 

2. Engage Before You Connect When Networking with Hiring Managers

Now, here’s where things really start to come together. Instead of focusing on what you can get, shift your attention to what you can give.

• Follow potential connections and turn on notifications for their posts
• Comment thoughtfully on their updates, adding value, insight, or your experience to the conversation
• Share their content with your network and tag relevant connections

LinkedIn is a platform built and design for conversations. The whole purpose of the platform is to support professional networking. And, it turns out that networking doesn’t have to be about asking for favors – it can be about lifting others up, joining conversations already happening on the platform and adding your insights to the community.

LinkedIn shares that users who regularly engage with content get 4X more profile views than those who don’t. So stop strolling and start joining conversations. 

3. Craft the Perfect Message

When you’re ready to reach out to that hiring manager, recruiter, or decision-maker, keep these messaging guidelines in mind, but first a word of caution.

*Do not send the AI-generated message templates LinkedIn recommends and sometimes prepopulates for you. They’re terrible, generic, and designed to function as a first draft not a finished product.

• Keep it specific and concise (150-175 words) this applies whether you’re reaching out about an opening, letting them know you applied, or asking for advice.
• Mention common connections or shared experiences. 
• Highlight relevant experience or accomplishments
• Express genuine enthusiasm for the role or company

Steve Dalton, from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University indicates that personalized messages have a 20-40% response rate. Compare that to the measly 1% response rate from traditional job board applications and that’s quite the advantage. And here’s a little secret from one introvert to another: crafting a thoughtful written message plays to our strengths! We can take our time, edit, and polish until it’s just right. No awkward small talk required!

Want even more strategies for networking with hiring managers on LinkedIn?

Now that you’ve discovered how to get started with networking on LinkedIn join 114,800 job seekers and grab my free, 5-minute weekly newsletter packed with actionable tips to search smarter not harder. 

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