After a decade in tech, including years at LinkedIn working on their job matching algorithms and now serving as VP of Engineering & Data Science, I’ve seen thousands of candidates navigate the tech hiring process. Here’s the truth that most won’t tell you: your network is worth more than all your technical skills combined.
The Uncomfortable Truth About Tech Hiring
Let’s start with a reality check: most job seekers focus on the wrong things. They obsess over:
- Perfecting their resume
- Practicing LeetCode problems
- Building portfolio projects
- Crafting the perfect cover letter
While these things matter, they’re table stakes. The real differentiator? Relationships.
This is roughly what your job search funnel looks like…. The problem is that companies are recieving way too many applications to meaningfully evaluate/review. So many automated tools and/or dumb heuristics (like “we only want people from Stanford”) are used ot filter out candidates. You can fight that system all you want by fine tuning your resume and portfolio and hoping that this time you’ll get the recognition you deserve… But I think there’s a better way!
Why Networking is Your Secret Weapon
Every company I’ve worked at from large companies like Google to small startups, candidates who came through internal referrals were significantly more likely to get hired. Here’s why:
- They Skip Steps: A strong internal recommendation often means bypassing the automated review systems
- They Get Grace: When you have an advocate inside, small interview mishaps are often overlooked
- They Get Inside Info: Networked candidates often know exactly what the team is looking for
- They Have Credibility: Someone is vouching for their abilities before they even walk in the door
Instead of trying to fight the machine: disconnect from it!
Building Relationships with Recruiters and Hiring Managers
Here’s something most candidates don’t realize: recruiters and hiring managers are your allies, not your adversaries. Having been a hiring manager myself, I can tell you we desperately want to find great people. Here’s how to build these crucial relationships:
With Recruiters
- Treat them as strategic partners, not just gatekeepers
- Be responsive and professional in all communications
- Ask thoughtful questions about the role and company
- Keep them updated on your search progress
- Send thank you notes after every interaction
With Hiring Managers
- Do your homework on their team and challenges
- Use the STAR method in interviews to share relevant experiences in a structured way
- Ask questions that show you’re thinking about their problems
- Follow up meaningfully after interviews
- Connect on LinkedIn and engage with their content
The Multi-Dimensional Advantage of Networking
Most job seekers think linearly about their search. But networking adds new dimensions:
- Instead of just applying to posted jobs, you learn about roles before they’re public
- Rather than competing with hundreds of applicants, you’re pre-vetted
- Beyond just showcasing skills, you demonstrate cultural fit
- Instead of being judged on paper, you’re known as a person
Beyond the Job Search: Long-term Network Building
Here’s something crucial I’ve learned as a VP: the best time to build your network is before you need it. Some strategies I’ve seen work well:
- Regularly share insights and learnings on platforms like LinkedIn, X, or even a blog/email newsletter
- Help others whenever you can
- Stay in touch with former colleagues
- Engage authentically in professional communities
- Contribute to industry discussions
The Technical Stuff Still Matters
Yes, you still need to prepare for technical interviews and have a solid portfolio. But these should support your networking efforts, not replace them. Use your technical preparation to:
- Have intelligent conversations with your network
- Demonstrate expertise in your interactions
- Build credibility in professional communities
- Show you can do the job when recommended
Final Thoughts
Remember: your network is your net worth in tech. The candidates who succeed aren’t just the most technically brilliant - they’re the ones who understand the power of relationships and invest in building them continuously.
Want more insights on tech careers and building professional relationships? Connect with me on LinkedIn and X and let’s grow our networks together.