Networking works best when it’s structured, specific, and consistent—not when it’s a frantic scramble after you apply to 50 roles. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m on LinkedIn all the time but nothing’s happening,” this 30-day plan is designed to turn effort into conversations and conversations into referrals.

The goal (and why it works)

Your goal isn’t to “grow your network.” Your goal is to create 8–12 quality career conversations with people who can:

• Share insider context on roles/teams
• Point you to the right hiring manager
• Refer you when the timing is right

Week 1: Build a targeted list (30–45 minutes)

Create a list of 25 people across three groups:

• 5 hiring-team adjacent (same function on the team you want)
• 10 peers (similar level, same role, different companies)
• 10 connectors (alumni, former coworkers, professional-group members)

Pro tip: Put them in a simple tracker: name, company, why them, date messaged, response, next step.

Week 2: Send better outreach (10 minutes/day)

Aim for 5 messages per week. Keep it short and grounded in a real reason.

Message template (customize the bold parts):

• “Hi {{Name}}—I’m exploring {{role/area}} and noticed you’ve worked on {{specific project/team}} at {{company}}. Would you be open to a 15-minute chat? I’d love to ask how {{team/role}} is structured and what skills matter most.”

Avoid: “Can you help me get a job?” Replace with: “I’m trying to understand the role so I can tailor my search.”

Week 3: Run great informational interviews (and earn follow-ups)

Use a simple agenda:

1. 2 minutes: Your quick intro (present + target)
2. 10 minutes: Their path + role reality
3. 3 minutes: Advice + next steps

Ask questions that make it easy to help you:

• “What does excellent look like in the first 90 days?”
• “What backgrounds tend to do well on your team?”
• “Who else would you suggest I talk to?” (best closing question)

Week 4: Follow up like a pro (most people skip this)

Within 24 hours, send:

• A quick thank you
• One takeaway you’ll act on
• A specific ask (optional): “If you think it’s appropriate, I’d be grateful if you’d point me to the right recruiter or role family.”

Then nurture the relationship:

• Share a relevant article
• Update them when you apply
• Celebrate their wins (promotion, talk, post)

A quick reality check

Networking isn’t instant—but it compounds. The magic is in repeatable daily actions, not one big burst.

What’s the hardest part for you right now—finding the right people, sending outreach, or turning chats into referrals?