A Warm Connection Beats a Cold Application — Every Single Time
A Warm Connection Beats a Cold Application — Every Single Time
When it comes to career opportunities, we all know the scenario: two people apply for the same job. Both are qualified, both meet the requirements, and both submit polished resumes. But if one of those applicants comes recommended by someone the hiring manager already knows and trusts, it’s not hard to guess who gets the interview.
That’s the power of networking. People hire people they know — or people someone they trust knows. A warm connection will open more doors, more quickly, than the most carefully crafted cold application.
The good news? You don’t need to know the CEO or have an influential network already in place. You simply need to start showing up, being present, and connecting with others. Over time, those small actions compound into genuine relationships that can lead to new opportunities.
Why Warm Connections Matter
Hiring managers are people first. They want to reduce risk and make the best choice possible. When your name comes recommended, you’re no longer a faceless resume in a pile. Instead, you become a candidate with context, someone who comes with a measure of credibility and trust.
A warm connection doesn’t guarantee you the job, but it dramatically increases your chances of being seen and heard. It creates a bridge between you and the opportunity, one that helps you stand out from the crowd.
How to Start Building Warm Connections
Networking doesn’t have to feel forced or intimidating. In fact, some of the most effective connections come from simple, intentional steps you can take right now:
Join Virtual Events
Attending online workshops, webinars, or industry meetups is a great way to get started. These spaces are designed for connection and learning, and they allow you to meet people who share your interests. Don’t just listen in — participate, ask questions, and follow up with a quick LinkedIn note afterward.
Reach Out for Coffee Chats
Coffee chats (virtual or in person) are one of the most underrated ways to network. A 20-minute conversation over coffee can open doors to new ideas, introductions, or even job leads. The key is to approach these chats with curiosity — ask about the other person’s career path, listen deeply, and look for ways you can add value.
Join Professional Groups
Whether online or locally, professional associations and networking groups are invaluable. They give you a place to practice showing up, to meet others in your industry, and to share your expertise. Over time, your consistency builds recognition — and recognition builds trust.
Overcoming the Fear of Putting Yourself Out There
It’s normal to feel nervous about networking. Many people hesitate because they don’t want to come across as pushy or inauthentic. The truth is, networking isn’t about selling yourself — it’s about building real relationships.
Think of it this way: every connection you make is another person who knows you exist, understands what you do, and might think of you when an opportunity comes along. You don’t need to attend every event or reach out to dozens of people at once. Start small, stay consistent, and let those small steps add up.
The Ripple Effect of Warm Connections
When you consistently show up and connect with others, something powerful happens: opportunities begin to find you. Maybe it’s an introduction to a hiring manager. Maybe it’s a colleague recommending you for a project. Or maybe it’s simply being top of mind when someone hears about an opening.
That ripple effect is what makes warm connections so valuable. Instead of chasing every opportunity cold, you create a network that works for you — one that grows stronger the more you invest in it.
Stay Connected and Keep Growing
Networking doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s about showing up, being intentional, and building real connections one step at a time.
If you’d like to keep learning practical ways to make networking feel natural, I invite you to join my monthly newsletter. You’ll get encouragement, insights, and updates about our upcoming online and in-person networking events.
And if you prefer to learn through conversation, you’ll love my podcast, where I share stories, strategies, and interviews to help you grow your confidence and connections.
