Networking is NOT a Dirty Word

Why Networking is More Than Just Job Searching

Earlier this year I co-sponsored a Women in ASHRAE event that not only allowed me to see women I have known for many years, but to also meet new friends. Socializing at these events are great to grow professional relationships and build relationships in the industry.

In a recent, very popular episode of our Management Under Construction podcast “Networking is NOT a Dirty Word”, Brad Wyant and I explore one of the most important—and often misunderstood—skills for career growth: networking. While many professionals think of it only as a strategy for job hunting, we emphasized that networking is much more than that. It’s about building meaningful relationships, investing in your professional reputation, and keeping doors open for future opportunities.

One powerful reminder we share is that 85% of jobs come through networking. Even more eye-opening is the fact that many positions are never advertised. This “hidden job market” becomes accessible only when you’ve taken the time to connect with people, nurture relationships, and stay engaged with your professional community.

Networking, however, isn’t about collecting business cards or sending connection requests. Superficial contacts rarely lead to long-term benefits. Genuine relationships—built on trust, consistency, and authentic interest—carry the most value. That might mean striking up a conversation at a conference, engaging with people outside your immediate circle, or following up after meeting someone new.

Platforms like LinkedIn play a major role in modern networking, offering a way to showcase your skills and stay visible to potential employers or collaborators. We cautioned against relying solely on virtual interactions. The human element—eye contact, tone, shared experiences—can’t be fully replicated online. In-person interactions build trust and rapport in ways digital connections often can’t.

For many professionals, networking events can feel intimidating. But as we noted, the willingness to talk to strangers and step outside your comfort zone can be the key to unlocking opportunities you didn’t know existed. Networking isn’t just about what you need right now—it’s an investment in your career’s future.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation

1. Networking is critical for career advancement—most opportunities come through relationships, not job boards.
2. The hidden job market is real—many roles are never posted publicly, making your network invaluable.
3. Genuine connections matter most—quality relationships build trust and long-term career support.
4. LinkedIn is powerful, but not enough on its own—face-to-face conversations create deeper rapport.
5. Step outside your comfort zone—talking to new people can open doors you didn’t know were there.

You can listen to the full podcast episode here: Networking is NOT a Dirty Word

Happy networking!