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How can I become better at not only building, but utilizing my network?
I am a senior at the University of Washington. I am an Accounting major and my favorite classes consist of Accounting and Finance classes. I also enjoy playing volleyball at recreation centers. Fun fact, I also know how to juggle.
The reason for my question is because I see many people with 500+ connections on LinkedIn, but have always been curious how they go about utilizing those connections.
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21 answers
Updated
Rhonda’s Answer
Great question—and one that many professionals, even mid-career, still think about. First off, it’s not just about how many connections you have, but how intentionally you use them.
Here are a few tips:
Start small and meaningful: Instead of focusing on the number, focus on a few key people you genuinely admire or want to learn from. Reach out with a personal note - mention a shared interest (like accounting or finance!) or ask a thoughtful question.
Stay engaged: Comment on posts, share interesting articles, or check in. Networking isn’t a one-time thing - it’s about ongoing connection.
Be clear about your goals: Are you seeking insights, opportunities, or mentors? When you’re clear, it’s easier for others to help.
Give back: Even as a student, you can offer value - share resources, make introductions, or celebrate others’ successes.
Wishing you the best in your senior year!
Here are a few tips:
Start small and meaningful: Instead of focusing on the number, focus on a few key people you genuinely admire or want to learn from. Reach out with a personal note - mention a shared interest (like accounting or finance!) or ask a thoughtful question.
Stay engaged: Comment on posts, share interesting articles, or check in. Networking isn’t a one-time thing - it’s about ongoing connection.
Be clear about your goals: Are you seeking insights, opportunities, or mentors? When you’re clear, it’s easier for others to help.
Give back: Even as a student, you can offer value - share resources, make introductions, or celebrate others’ successes.
Wishing you the best in your senior year!
Updated
Blue Shield of California’s Answer
Your network is anyone who supports you such as your teachers, coaches, family friends, and classmates. Start by staying in touch with people who've helped or inspired you. Let them know what you're working on and thank them when they help you. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Most people are happy to help, you just have to ask. And always be willing to help others too even in small ways.
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Tammy’s Answer
I use linked In as my professional network and not a social sight like Facebook or IG. I will only link with people I have actually met or interacted with personally. If you are just starting your professional life, be very active in building your network. Include those people from school, social groups, seminars, and jobs. If you find yourself interested in a company or career with not connections, start introducing yourself. Don't be afraid of a cold introduction, people will appreciate the interaction.
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Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Helaman !
Welcome to Career Village and I think it's really cool that you are a Juggler !
You will undoubtedly find that as time goes on you will surely expand and use your networking circle. Sometimes, gaining contacts happens naturally. By attending trainings, conferences, going to Job Fairs and living every day life, one never knows who one will meet. As a CPA, your main focus on contacts will be towards the hiring staff at various companies and agencies. Contacts will be valuable for you if you want to work for a company and even if you start your own service.
As time moves on, you will meet many people in many fields of work and those can be good contacts that could inform you about Accounting openings at the company or agency they work at. Accounting is sort of one of those careers that heavy networking is not really required for.
As for Linked In, for Accounting, your best bet to expand contacts would be to Follow instead of focusing on actual contacts. By following companies or other places you'd like to work, you can become aware of who may be hiring. Gaining contacts will be perhaps a good thing when and if you decide to freelance because you never know who would want their taxes done or other things. Basically, everyone you meet can be a valuable contact in some way or another. But follow as many companies as you like and check often to see if there are any openings for CPA's at those companies.
The way I use Linked In as an actress is by following casting people and production companies and studios. I have many former colleagues on there as a way to just stay in touch, show support and communicate through private messaging. You can set notifications for employment alerts too on Linked In. I wouldn't worry about people having 500 - 1000 contacts because some of those people don't even know the person. Social Media may be more "show" than anything else. Your focus is best left to which companies are most useful for you.
Most of all, remember that your Accounting career is going to be unique to you and what others do doesn't matter. Keep in mind that your contacts on Linked In will be in the way of companies that hire Accountants and people that would be potential customers if you decide to have your own Accounting Service. So add friends, classmates and co-workers and you'll see that soon enough there will be people to stay in touch with.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Welcome to Career Village and I think it's really cool that you are a Juggler !
You will undoubtedly find that as time goes on you will surely expand and use your networking circle. Sometimes, gaining contacts happens naturally. By attending trainings, conferences, going to Job Fairs and living every day life, one never knows who one will meet. As a CPA, your main focus on contacts will be towards the hiring staff at various companies and agencies. Contacts will be valuable for you if you want to work for a company and even if you start your own service.
As time moves on, you will meet many people in many fields of work and those can be good contacts that could inform you about Accounting openings at the company or agency they work at. Accounting is sort of one of those careers that heavy networking is not really required for.
As for Linked In, for Accounting, your best bet to expand contacts would be to Follow instead of focusing on actual contacts. By following companies or other places you'd like to work, you can become aware of who may be hiring. Gaining contacts will be perhaps a good thing when and if you decide to freelance because you never know who would want their taxes done or other things. Basically, everyone you meet can be a valuable contact in some way or another. But follow as many companies as you like and check often to see if there are any openings for CPA's at those companies.
The way I use Linked In as an actress is by following casting people and production companies and studios. I have many former colleagues on there as a way to just stay in touch, show support and communicate through private messaging. You can set notifications for employment alerts too on Linked In. I wouldn't worry about people having 500 - 1000 contacts because some of those people don't even know the person. Social Media may be more "show" than anything else. Your focus is best left to which companies are most useful for you.
Most of all, remember that your Accounting career is going to be unique to you and what others do doesn't matter. Keep in mind that your contacts on Linked In will be in the way of companies that hire Accountants and people that would be potential customers if you decide to have your own Accounting Service. So add friends, classmates and co-workers and you'll see that soon enough there will be people to stay in touch with.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
My spouse is so good at this - I watch him in awe and try to emulate it! This takes a lot of work, because to really build a network you have to be genuine and take care of it - like gardening! You can't just ignore a plant and go back to it after a few years and ask it to produce a flower. building and maintaining your network means keeping in touch, remembering things about your contacts, making an effort to have lunch or reach out in other ways on some routine basis. Some of this is also utilizing things like Linked In to keep in touch with folks you don't have in your everyday life. When I got laid off at one company, I made calls to friends I knew in the legal field who had been in the job market. Instead of just asking for help, I asked for advice - ""How did you handle this? What is the best way to get back out there? What do you think of working for XYZ?"" I find people love to share their experiences, and they are eager to help. When you're in a place where you need to utilize the network, reach out and make a personal connection. ""Hi Bob, I know you've worked at X company for 10 years. Do you mind having coffee/a video call with me to tell me more about working in X field? I'd love to pick your brain.""
The other important thing is BEING a good network for people. If someone calls you for that kind of information, volunteer your time, be thoughtful, help them connect where you can, give them an ear to listen!
The other important thing is BEING a good network for people. If someone calls you for that kind of information, volunteer your time, be thoughtful, help them connect where you can, give them an ear to listen!
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
Hi Helaman. This is a great question!
First and foremost, don't be shy about reaching out! People generally are very receptive to helping others. When contacting someone you already know, remind them how you are connected (e.g., if you met at a particular event or know people in common). When you do reach out, be specific about your needs.
Second, meeting in-person can also create a deeper connection, so try to attend events where you think there will be people you would like to meet and introduce yourself. Have an ""elevator pitch"" so you can succinctly and articulately present yourself.
Third, remember that networking goes in many directions -- you may be able to help others as you build your own network, which may, in turn, create many more meaningful connections.
Best of luck to you in your educational and career journeys!
First and foremost, don't be shy about reaching out! People generally are very receptive to helping others. When contacting someone you already know, remind them how you are connected (e.g., if you met at a particular event or know people in common). When you do reach out, be specific about your needs.
Second, meeting in-person can also create a deeper connection, so try to attend events where you think there will be people you would like to meet and introduce yourself. Have an ""elevator pitch"" so you can succinctly and articulately present yourself.
Third, remember that networking goes in many directions -- you may be able to help others as you build your own network, which may, in turn, create many more meaningful connections.
Best of luck to you in your educational and career journeys!
Updated
Blue Shield of California’s Answer
Branch out into local events, or work groups at work that interest you. Volunteering is a great way to meet people and grow your network. I find that many people have great luck utilizing LinkedIn for professional networking as well. Social media seems to be a popular way to get your message out and connect, but it could also be as simple as a business card. Don't be afraid to ask advice from people you meet, especially if you meet a great potential mentor or someone who could provide you with guidance (e.g., career or educational pathways).
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Jacky’s Answer
Hi Helaman, it's great to see you building your network! Many people aim for 500+ connections, but the real value comes from how you use them. If you're eyeing a job, try connecting with people who work there. Meeting for coffee or attending networking events can lead to strong connections. It might feel intimidating at first, but remember, everyone is just human. Even the CEO or CFO is someone’s Uncle Bob or Aunt Sally. Networking is about making friends and building relationships along the way. Have fun with it, just like playing volleyball with friends, or strangers (;
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
I've found that this is one I have to be really intentional about as I'm a bit of an introvert. Here are some things I've done:
- scheduling time on my calendar to reach out to past friends and colleagues for coffee or lunch
- set a goal to attend at least one event per month where I can meet people and network.
If you have a friend who is also trying to build their network, you can buddy up and go to events together. I've done this so at least I know one person. The two of you can also set goal to meet at least 2 new people while you're at the event (friendly competition ;))
- scheduling time on my calendar to reach out to past friends and colleagues for coffee or lunch
- set a goal to attend at least one event per month where I can meet people and network.
If you have a friend who is also trying to build their network, you can buddy up and go to events together. I've done this so at least I know one person. The two of you can also set goal to meet at least 2 new people while you're at the event (friendly competition ;))
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
Start by cultivating authentic connections - focus on building relationships based on mutual respect and genuine interest rather than transactional interactions. Attend events, workshops, or conferences related to your interests or field, and engage in meaningful conversations with people you meet.To strengthen your network, stay in touch regularly. This can be as simple as sending a thoughtful message, congratulating someone on their achievements, or sharing resources that might be helpful to them. Remember that networking isn’t just about asking for favors; it’s also about offering value to others, whether through advice, collaboration, or support.
When it comes to utilizing your network, be clear about your goals. Whether you’re seeking guidance, opportunities, or referrals, communicate your needs explicitly yet respectfully. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, but ensure you’re doing so in a way that respects the other person’s time and expertise. At the same time, stay open to unexpected opportunities that your connections might bring.
When it comes to utilizing your network, be clear about your goals. Whether you’re seeking guidance, opportunities, or referrals, communicate your needs explicitly yet respectfully. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, but ensure you’re doing so in a way that respects the other person’s time and expertise. At the same time, stay open to unexpected opportunities that your connections might bring.
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Mike’s Answer
Hi Helaman,
Your question is a good one. Networking is the most important part of your job search.
A lot of people on social media try to collect as many connections as possible. This includes LinkedIn. A lot of times, they do not interact with their connections at all. They just collect them.
That is a strategy that I do not recommend. It is much better to have fewer connections that are more interesting to you.
Here is some advice that I recently received from a career coach regarding the critical contents of a networking message.
Seven Items to include in every networking message:
1. Who are you? (Many people forget to include this!)
a. Name
b. Profession
c. Relationship (This can be anything that ties you to the person that you are addressing. This provides them a frame of reference.)
For Example:
Hello. I am John Smith. I am recent graduate in accounting from Georgetown University.
2. Why are you contacting them?
Why are you reaching out to this person?
Example:
I heard from my friend Jack Jones that you may know the hiring manager for the current accounting intern position at ABC Corporation.
3. What do you want?
Example:
The reason that I am reaching out to you is that I am interested in applying for the accounting intern position at ABC Corporation.
4. Show them that you have done your homework.
Show them that you are diligent. This also shows them that this is not a generic broadcast message.
2 and 4 are critical. If these 2 are left out, there is only a slim chance that you will ever get a reply.
Example:
I am excited about working for ABC Corporation because they are a growing company that is well-respected in the accounting industry.
5. What Do You Offer?
Networking is a two-way street. There is always something that you can offer them. You need to explain this.
Example:
I have been working to improve my skills in <your_skill_here>, and I am interested in bringing those skills to this position.
6. What is the next step?
The more explicit and the more focused, the better. This lets the person respond quickly.
Example:
Can you tell me the best way to contact the hiring manager?
7. Show that you are Grateful. Please and thank you work!
Example:
Thank you very much for your attention.
There are many types of Networking Messages:
a. Reaching out to a "Stranger" who is not the hiring manager, but may know them.
b. Reaching out to a friend who is not the hiring manager, but may know them.
c. Reaching out to a friend who knows someone at the target company.
You can use earlier networking messages as templates for future messages. Pay attention to the structure of the messages that seem to be getting the best responses.
I wish you good Luck in all that you do.
Here is a helpful resource for writing your resume: https://www.resume.com/
Here is a resource you can use for checking your resume. (This website provides tools and insights to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems.) https://www.jobscan.co/
Your question is a good one. Networking is the most important part of your job search.
A lot of people on social media try to collect as many connections as possible. This includes LinkedIn. A lot of times, they do not interact with their connections at all. They just collect them.
That is a strategy that I do not recommend. It is much better to have fewer connections that are more interesting to you.
Here is some advice that I recently received from a career coach regarding the critical contents of a networking message.
Seven Items to include in every networking message:
1. Who are you? (Many people forget to include this!)
a. Name
b. Profession
c. Relationship (This can be anything that ties you to the person that you are addressing. This provides them a frame of reference.)
For Example:
Hello. I am John Smith. I am recent graduate in accounting from Georgetown University.
2. Why are you contacting them?
Why are you reaching out to this person?
Example:
I heard from my friend Jack Jones that you may know the hiring manager for the current accounting intern position at ABC Corporation.
3. What do you want?
Example:
The reason that I am reaching out to you is that I am interested in applying for the accounting intern position at ABC Corporation.
4. Show them that you have done your homework.
Show them that you are diligent. This also shows them that this is not a generic broadcast message.
2 and 4 are critical. If these 2 are left out, there is only a slim chance that you will ever get a reply.
Example:
I am excited about working for ABC Corporation because they are a growing company that is well-respected in the accounting industry.
5. What Do You Offer?
Networking is a two-way street. There is always something that you can offer them. You need to explain this.
Example:
I have been working to improve my skills in <your_skill_here>, and I am interested in bringing those skills to this position.
6. What is the next step?
The more explicit and the more focused, the better. This lets the person respond quickly.
Example:
Can you tell me the best way to contact the hiring manager?
7. Show that you are Grateful. Please and thank you work!
Example:
Thank you very much for your attention.
There are many types of Networking Messages:
a. Reaching out to a "Stranger" who is not the hiring manager, but may know them.
b. Reaching out to a friend who is not the hiring manager, but may know them.
c. Reaching out to a friend who knows someone at the target company.
You can use earlier networking messages as templates for future messages. Pay attention to the structure of the messages that seem to be getting the best responses.
I wish you good Luck in all that you do.
Mike recommends the following next steps:
Thanks for the advice.
Karena
Updated
Blue Shield of California’s Answer
I find it helpful each time I meet a new person to connect with them via LinkedIn within the first week or two after meeting them, so the connection is fresh in their minds. It's also helpful to set a goal (could be weekly or monthly) to reach out to 1-2 people in your network to say hello or connect on a mutually interesting topic. It's far easier to reach out to someone if you need career support or assistance when you've had other recent and meaningful interactions with them.
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
It can be awkward to build and tap into your network, I know it is for me. I remind myself that most people want to be helpful and it doesn't hurt to ask. It's always good to pay it forward, so you can always offer to see you can support others first.
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
I personally find networking within your company is the best way to expand your professional reach. Make sure you attend company-wide events, in-person if possible, such as employee resource groups. This will help you connect with coworkers on a different level. Make sure to not only focus on demonstrating your skills and qualifications, but making genuine connections as well!
LinkedIn has been a huge network advantage. Also trying to keep in touch with contacts from high school, college/trade school, former jobs. You never know when someone from your network will intersect with where you are today!
LinkedIn has been a huge network advantage. Also trying to keep in touch with contacts from high school, college/trade school, former jobs. You never know when someone from your network will intersect with where you are today!
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Martha’s Answer
Hi Helaman -
This is a terrific question, and you have received excellent advice from Mike and Michelle. I would reiterate that just "collecting" contacts should not be the objective. To have a true network, think of ways you could assist your contacts, such as sharing your knowledge. This could be advising them on social media or newer technologies you may be familiar with. Or you could send them articles/links they may not have seen about their employer or industry. If it has been a while (your definition), you could send a quick message thanking them for past contact or help and hoping they are well - and not asking for anything. This keeps relationships alive and makes it less awkward to ask for assistance when you need it.
I especially like what Michelle said about other uses for LinkedIn, such as following people or companies, and setting employment alerts. Notifications there provide natural opportunities to stay in touch, such as congratulating for job promotions or credentials earned. I also receive news from LinkedIn which is relevant to my profession. The link below provides more detail.
Good luck!
LinkedIn - https://members.linkedin.com/how-to-use-linkedin
This is a terrific question, and you have received excellent advice from Mike and Michelle. I would reiterate that just "collecting" contacts should not be the objective. To have a true network, think of ways you could assist your contacts, such as sharing your knowledge. This could be advising them on social media or newer technologies you may be familiar with. Or you could send them articles/links they may not have seen about their employer or industry. If it has been a while (your definition), you could send a quick message thanking them for past contact or help and hoping they are well - and not asking for anything. This keeps relationships alive and makes it less awkward to ask for assistance when you need it.
I especially like what Michelle said about other uses for LinkedIn, such as following people or companies, and setting employment alerts. Notifications there provide natural opportunities to stay in touch, such as congratulating for job promotions or credentials earned. I also receive news from LinkedIn which is relevant to my profession. The link below provides more detail.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Lendyn
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Ebner’s Answer
The best way to build your network is to know the arena you want to enter (career field) learning as much as possible about it and knowing the key players in it. People are willing to help those who ask for it so having the courage to put yourself out there is 90% of the battle and having the confidence to overcome the fear of rejection will put you in places you may have never seen yourself being in. There is so much information out in the world and once you know how to utilize it you will be able to put yourself in a position of growth and uncovering new opportunities.
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
Building your network is not easy, but you can start by connecting with professors and then when you get to a job, or conferences, career fairs add them to your "network", add them on LinkedIn. Connecting with people, doing social hours to stay connected. Once you continue to touch base with someone, then you can start utilizing them for reference or asking for "mentorship" or advise. People ultimately like helping others.
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Ekaterina’s Answer
To get better at building and using your network, focus on forming strong relationships and reaching out strategically. Here are some helpful steps:
1. Set Clear Goals
- Know what you want from your network, like job opportunities or advice.
- Think about what you can offer others, not just what you can gain.
2. Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
- Make your profile clear and complete.
- Use a headline that adds value beyond your job title.
- In the "About" section, share your story and goals.
- Highlight achievements in your experience section.
- List relevant skills and ask colleagues for endorsements.
3. Be Proactive
- When connecting, add a personal note, like “Hi Jane, I admire your work and would love to learn from you.”
- Diversify your network with peers, managers, and industry professionals.
- Engage with others’ content by sharing your thoughts.
4. Stay Active and Visible
- Share your insights every two weeks.
- Celebrate others by commenting on their achievements.
- Join conversations by adding your advice or perspective.
5. Use Your Network
- Be clear and direct when reaching out, like “Hi Jody, I admire your work and would love 10 minutes of your advice.”
- Ask for advice, not jobs.
- Offer mutual value, like connecting someone with your contacts.
6. Maintain Relationships
- Check in with a brief note every few months.
- Share relevant articles or congratulate milestones.
- Set up short virtual catch-ups, especially with mentors.
- Show genuine care for people and their families.
7. Network In-Person
- Attend local events or webinars and follow up on LinkedIn.
- Sign up for panels.
- Use mutual connections to meet new people.
1. Set Clear Goals
- Know what you want from your network, like job opportunities or advice.
- Think about what you can offer others, not just what you can gain.
2. Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
- Make your profile clear and complete.
- Use a headline that adds value beyond your job title.
- In the "About" section, share your story and goals.
- Highlight achievements in your experience section.
- List relevant skills and ask colleagues for endorsements.
3. Be Proactive
- When connecting, add a personal note, like “Hi Jane, I admire your work and would love to learn from you.”
- Diversify your network with peers, managers, and industry professionals.
- Engage with others’ content by sharing your thoughts.
4. Stay Active and Visible
- Share your insights every two weeks.
- Celebrate others by commenting on their achievements.
- Join conversations by adding your advice or perspective.
5. Use Your Network
- Be clear and direct when reaching out, like “Hi Jody, I admire your work and would love 10 minutes of your advice.”
- Ask for advice, not jobs.
- Offer mutual value, like connecting someone with your contacts.
6. Maintain Relationships
- Check in with a brief note every few months.
- Share relevant articles or congratulate milestones.
- Set up short virtual catch-ups, especially with mentors.
- Show genuine care for people and their families.
7. Network In-Person
- Attend local events or webinars and follow up on LinkedIn.
- Sign up for panels.
- Use mutual connections to meet new people.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hello Helaman,
everyone above me has given great advice and I just want to reiterate making genuine connections rather than using Linkedin as a social media platform and just worrying about the number of connections you have. A good place to make connections while you are still in school, at career fairs or even with your fellow classmates. My advice for career fairs would be to do your research about the firms that will be attending before you go and come up with a couple of personalized questions for each one. This shows the firms that you actually care and have interest. Don't prepare too much and let the conversation take its natural course. If the conversation goes well, ask to connect with them on such platform like Linkedin and follow up with them, thanking them for their time, and potentially asking them about any open positions if it hadn't been mentioned already. As for classmates, be sure to take the time to get to know your fellow classmates and find out where they are interning/ working, as those are going to be the connection/ network of people you know once you all enter the workforce together. It is always good to know people and have a good connection, especially when you are all working in the same industry.
everyone above me has given great advice and I just want to reiterate making genuine connections rather than using Linkedin as a social media platform and just worrying about the number of connections you have. A good place to make connections while you are still in school, at career fairs or even with your fellow classmates. My advice for career fairs would be to do your research about the firms that will be attending before you go and come up with a couple of personalized questions for each one. This shows the firms that you actually care and have interest. Don't prepare too much and let the conversation take its natural course. If the conversation goes well, ask to connect with them on such platform like Linkedin and follow up with them, thanking them for their time, and potentially asking them about any open positions if it hadn't been mentioned already. As for classmates, be sure to take the time to get to know your fellow classmates and find out where they are interning/ working, as those are going to be the connection/ network of people you know once you all enter the workforce together. It is always good to know people and have a good connection, especially when you are all working in the same industry.
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Blue Shield of California’s Answer
You can reguarly post a short update about something you read, learned, or worked on. Add in how it helped you in your job (or job search). Ask your network if they are available for 30 minutes in person or online (for a coffee / tea or lunch break) to talk about how they enjoy their career; the education and training required; how they landed their job -- especially if you know they are already in a area you are most interested in.
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Jeff’s Answer
be genuine and be yourself. find something in common if you can, especially when networking with your school or alumni. at the same time, be purposeful and be prepared to craft your story or why you want to connect. share a passion or story that connects the dot