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Missed the hiring wave? How to network your way to a new job before year-end?

After the slower summer months, October signals a major uptick in hiring as companies rush to fill positions before the year ends. It’s like the final sprint where businesses push hard to meet their targets, and job seekers can take advantage of the fresh wave of opportunities.

According to the 2024 ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey, nearly 48% of employers plan to actively hire in the fourth quarter. That means almost half of companies are ready to bring new talent on board, starting right now.

3 smart ways to get more interviews before the year ends

Networking can be tricky. You’ve probably wondered:

  1. What exactly do I say when reaching out cold?
  2. How do I follow up without feeling like I’m being pushy?
  3. What’s the right way to ask for a referral without making it awkward?

These are exactly the challenges we solved with our Comprehensive Networking Template. After months of research, real-world testing, and input from professionals and recruiters, we created a set of templates that eliminates the guesswork in every networking scenario.

I don’t want to undersell what we did here: We put in tons of money into MULTIPLE LinkedIn premium accounts, spent months testing out different messages and measuring reply rates, and most importantly…

… we made sure that the replies resulted in high-paying offers.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill “networking guide” slapped together by some intern who has no idea how the real world works. It’s the result of blood, sweat, and (probably) a few too many cups of coffee

Here are our three highest-performing networking templates guaranteed to help you get better, more high-paying job offers: 

1. Leverage warm introductions through your peers

Cold outreach works, but a warm introduction through your network is far more powerful. Identify contacts in your industry who can connect you to decision-makers, and send a tailored request explaining why you’re interested in the company and how you align with their needs.

Pro Tip: Share a recent accomplishment or skill to give your contact something compelling to mention when introducing you.

Here’s a template you can use here:

Hi Name, 

I am exploring opportunities in [Field/Industry]. I notice you [something about their career that is kind of “non-traditional”]. I wanted to ask if you can recommend someone who recruits for [similar roles in target location if relocating].

This is what it would look like in action:

Hi Fatemah,

I am exploring opportunities in UX/UI research. I notice that you started your UX/UI career after establishing yourself in marketing first. I wanted to ask if you can recommend a recruiter for someone who is looking for UX/UI roles in Los Angeles but also has that strong marketing background.

Here’s why it works:

  • Establishes common ground and personal connection: By acknowledging shared experiences or similar challenges, you create rapport and make your outreach more personalized and memorable.
  • Makes an easy and actionable request: By asking a straightforward, yes/no question about recommending a recruiter, you make it simple for them to respond, increasing the likelihood of engagement.

Bonus: It’s just under 300 characters, so you can send this as a LinkedIn connection request.

2. Directly approach decision- makers with cold outreach emails

Instead of waiting for job postings, take control by reaching out directly to decision-makers. Research companies that align with your goals, and craft a short, personalized message focusing on how your skills can solve their specific challenges.

Pro Tip: Keep your email under 150 words and focus on how your unique skills solve their challenges.

Here’s a template you can use here:

Hi Name, 

I see you are hiring for new open positions at [company name]. I have been in the [target] ]industry for [time] now and I am planning to shift to [target roles/target location if relocating]. Do you mind keeping me on file for any roles that require the [relevant experience]?

This is what it would look like in action:

Hi Michael,

I see you are hiring for new open positions at TechSolutions Inc. I have been in the software development industry for 5 years now, and I am planning to shift to project management roles in New York City. Do you mind keeping me on file for any roles that require leadership experience in agile development and cross-functional team management?

Here’s why it works:

  • Demonstrates initiative and sets you apart: By proactively reaching out to decision-makers, you show initiative and distinguish yourself from candidates who wait for job postings.
  • Offers a personalized, solution-focused message: By highlighting how your unique skills address their specific challenges, you create a tailored message that captures attention and increases the likelihood of a positive response.

Tired of applying with no results? We’ll network and apply for you.

3. Reach out to people you could report to

Networking with people who could be your future manager gives you a massive advantage. You’re building a relationship directly with the person who might hire you. This boosts your credibility and can lead to referrals—and even mentorship.

Here’s a template you can use here:

Hi Name,
I have been keenly following news on the [company’s relevant project] for the past few months. I noticed you are also on the project team. Given [some current trend], do you think the net impact on [your work] will be positive?

This is what it would look like in action:

Hi Lisa,

I have been keenly following news on the GreenTech Initiative for the past few months. I noticed you are also on the project team. Given the growing demand for renewable energy solutions, do you think the net impact on your team’s sustainability efforts will be positive?

This message is just “half” of your networking activity. After you send this out, your goal is to continue the conversation by engaging thoughtfully with their response, exploring opportunities to collaborate, and staying actively on their radar. The key is to consistently provide value and express genuine interest, which can enhance your visibility for job opportunities, lead to valuable mentorship, or even result in a referral.

Here’s a template you can use here:

Thank you for your response, [Name]. 

I really appreciate your thoughts on [relevant news/project]. As someone aiming to transition to/as someone working in a similar role, I agree with your opinion [establish common ground]. I was wondering if you have about 15 minutes for a brief call? I have some questions I would love to ask you on [subject relevant to news/project]; specifically, the best way to approach [specific subject]. I am available all next week [insert Calendly link]. Looking forward to connecting with you. 

Bonus Tip: Connect with Executives (Not just your immediate managers)

Building relationships with executives can accelerate your job search by months. Why? Executives have a bird’s-eye view of industry trends and hidden job openings that aren’t always posted online.

Here’s a template you can use here:

Hi Name,

I came across your LinkedIn summary and I have to say your passion for what you do is inspiring. Given that you are an authority on the subject, I wanted to ask if you have seen the [industry-prevalent trend] in your organization/team. 

This is what it would look like in action:

Hi David,

I came across your LinkedIn summary and I have to say your passion for what you do in fintech innovation is inspiring. Given that you are an authority on the subject, I wanted to ask if you have seen the rise in AI-driven financial solutions in your organization/team.

Networking is just one piece of the puzzle

After you’ve made those valuable connections, don’t forget the other biggie: your resume. You’ve put in the hard work networking, so make sure your resume doesn’t let you down.

Check out our resume cheat sheet to ensure it’s as polished as your networking game.

Ready to get started? Follow these steps, send those emails, and make the most of the hiring surge.