In today’s fast-paced job market, where technology and AI-driven recruitment platforms have transformed the hiring landscape, the power of networking remains unchanged. The adage, “It’s not just what you know, but who you know” still holds true, especially in staffing and job searching. Building and maintaining strong professional connections can unlock career opportunities, enhance hiring strategies, and create long-term success for both job seekers and employers.
Why Networking Still Matters in Hiring
Access to Hidden Job Markets
Many employers fill job openings through internal referrals and industry connections before they ever reach public job boards. A perfect example of this happened within our own team. Before I joined Matern Staffing, I spoke with Teresa at a local SHRM event, where I learned that Ginni wanted to hire a strong staffing and sales leader. Thanks to my connection with Teresa, Ginni quickly recognized that I was the right fit and hired me before ever publicly posting the role. Networking isn’t just about meeting people—it’s about uncovering opportunities that might otherwise stay hidden.
Stronger Candidate Referrals
For hiring managers, referrals from trusted contacts often lead to higher-quality hires. Employees hired through referrals tend to stay longer and perform better because they come with built-in endorsements from professionals who understand the company culture and job expectations. A great example of this is how we found Tiana, our exceptional new branch manager. Robin, our part-time payroll specialist, knew Tiana’s experience and work ethic firsthand and immediately thought she’d be a perfect fit. Thanks to that trusted connection, we were able to bring in a strong leader who not only met but exceeded our expectations. This is the power of networking—it connects the right people with the right opportunities.
Faster Hiring Process
Networking can streamline the hiring process by reducing the time spent screening candidates. When a recommendation comes from a credible source, it speeds up decision-making and leads to quicker placements.
Building Trust and Strengthening Relationships
Whether you’re a hiring manager, job seeker, or recruiter, networking enhances your credibility. It also creates opportunities for face-to-face interactions that build trust and credibility in ways that emails alone cannot. At a recent job fair, I ran into a hiring manager I had been communicating with for months but hadn’t yet secured as a client. This in-person connection allowed her to see my team in action, witnessing firsthand the genuine care and professionalism we bring to every interaction. That personal experience reinforced our value in a way no pitch or email could, demonstrating how networking can turn long-standing connections into real business opportunities.
Tips for Building Professional Connections That Lead to Job Opportunities
Attend Events, Conferences, Meetups, and Trade Shows
These gatherings provide excellent opportunities to meet industry leaders and decision-makers. Making connections in person can open doors to opportunities that may not be advertised. Just ask Gretchen—by putting herself out there, engaging with the right people, and seizing networking opportunities, she found the job that changed her career trajectory. Her story is a testament to the power of showing up and building relationships. Set a goal to attend at least one key event each month—you never know when the next conversation could lead to your next great opportunity.
Leverage Social Media
Platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable for professional networking. Engage with industry content, join relevant groups (college alumni, business associations), connect with people who align with your professional goals, and also engage with people outside your regular circle. In her February 2025 article, Jessica Koehler, Ph.D., revisits social psychologist Mark Granovetter’s strength of weak ties concept within the social media and AI landscape. Granovetter’s concept was the result of a 1973 paper in which he concluded that a person’s weakest ties (acquaintances) were more helpful than strong ties for finding a job. Koehler’s article expands on the idea of using your weak ties in social media to broaden your circle and disrupt AI-algorithms that can echo what we want to see. Therefore, a well-maintained profile and occasional check-ins with your acquaintances could widen your reach to recruiters and potential business partners.
Stay Active in Professional Associations
Joining industry associations or local business groups can open doors to meaningful professional relationships. Volunteering for leadership roles or speaking at events can further enhance your visibility.
Follow Up and Stay in Touch
A strong network is built on relationships, not just initial introductions. Follow up with new contacts, send occasional check-ins (e.g., happy birthday messages), and offer help when possible. Genuine, ongoing interactions build trust and keep you top of mind for opportunities.
Offer Value Before Asking for Help
Networking is a two-way street. Offer assistance, share insights, and support your connections before seeking favors. This builds goodwill and increases the likelihood of receiving help when you need it.
Utilize Staffing Firms
Partnering with a staffing agency can be a strategic way to leverage industry connections. Staffing firms have established relationships with employers and job seekers, making them an essential bridge between talent and opportunity. For example, in 2023 when a local manufacturing plant shut down, our strong relationships and reputation allowed us to step in quickly, connecting displaced workers with new opportunities and helping businesses fill critical roles. This success wasn’t just about having the right contacts—it was also about showing up, building trust, and delivering results. Networking isn’t just about who you know—it’s about making meaningful connections and letting your work speak for itself.
Face-to-Face Networking & Referrals
Never underestimate the power of in-person networking. Meeting someone in person builds a stronger connection and trust. Whether at a business event, coffee shop, or community gathering, you never know who you will run into or who they may know that could be a valuable lead for business clients or potential employees. Encouraging referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations can significantly boost opportunities in staffing.
Final Thoughts
In an era where job searches and hiring decisions are increasingly driven by changing algorithms and automated tools, networking remains a powerful tool. Relationships foster trust, open doors, and create opportunities that technology alone cannot replicate. But, it takes effort and time. Whether you’re a job seeker looking for your next career move or an employer seeking top talent, investing in professional connections will always be a game-changer in the long run.
You never know who you’ll run into or what opportunity is just around the corner—so show up, be positive, and stay grateful. Building strong relationships takes time, but when you’re in it for the long run, the right connection at the right time can change everything! – Kelly Roth
At Matern Staffing, we understand the power of networking and leverage our relationships to connect top-tier talent with leading employers. Let’s work together to build strong professional networks that lead to successful careers and thriving businesses.
If finding a new job is part of your personal goals this year, we can help. Stop saying tomorrow – get started today!
If finding talent is part of your business’ goal this year, we can also help. Schedule a FREE Staffing Strategy Session or Submit a Talent Request.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out our list of local WorkForce Development Resources for ways to network, connect, and up-skill.