I sent 200 DMs to companies - it was awkward but I got a job

I sent 200 DMs to companies - it was awkward but I got a job

'I sent 200 DMs': Networking in New York

For some people, networking feels natural, but for others, the idea of approaching a stranger and trying to build a professional relationship can be intimidating.

Whether you are searching for your first job, aiming to progress at work or hoping to switch careers, developing a network can help you uncover opportunities and make valuable connections.

Networking does not need to mean working a room at a formal event. It can happen face to face over coffee at work, through an unexpected conversation, or online via email and social media.

According to LinkedIn research, just under half of Gen Z, 44%, say that not having the right network is the biggest obstacle to getting an entry-level role.

Nicole Leverich, LinkedIn’s chief communications officer, offers her best advice on networking, and we asked the same question to workers in New York City to learn what has worked for them.

Leverich says anyone can begin building a network online, and "you'd be surprised how many connections you have once you connect with people you went to school with, former professors, people you met through summer jobs, family and friends."

She says people should not be put off if their network is small, because "not having a network right now doesn't mean you'll never have a network".

Lacking obvious industry contacts should not discourage you either.

Leverich grew up in a small town in Oregon and moved to San Francisco after college without knowing anyone in communications.

After landing her first job, she says, "I raised my hand for a lot of the grunt work that other people didn't want to do and I built connections as I went along."

Leverich has held the role of LinkedIn chief communications officer for the past two years.

If you are considering contacting someone online, Leverich says the important thing is to show that you have done your research.

In a message, you should "reference something they've posted or establish some common ground".

Your request should be "clear and specific" and something they can handle in under five minutes. And above all, remember to say thank you.

"You'd be surprised by how many people are willing to help, but I get so few thank yous," she says. "I'm not talking about anything excessive but just a 'thanks' makes you want to help next time."

Networking can seem transactional, so Leverich advises building relationships before you need anything from them.

If you already know you want to work in a certain industry, "start finding people in that field a year or two before you're looking for a job".

When you contact them, consider what you can give back.

"If you call me and say you want a job randomly, I'm much less likely to help than if you call and ask for five minutes of advice."

She also says you do not have to begin by messaging someone directly. You could instead react to a post or leave a comment.

Networking in person can feel more intimidating, especially early in your career, but remember that everyone at a networking event is there to talk.

To start a conversation, begin with something simple such as complimenting someone's outfit, introducing yourself and asking why they are there, Leverich advises.

"Put in the reps and start by going to an event for just 15 minutes or half an hour and then build from there."

When it is time to move on, do not overthink it: "I just do the hard cut and say, 'It was great to meet you and I need to make sure I work around the room.'

"If you want a softer out, something like 'I need to get a glass of water, it was great meeting you' can work."

Taylor and Vicky both say networking helped them get the job they are in now.

Of course, knowing what you should do is one thing, but actually walking up to a stranger and starting a conversation, or messaging someone out of the blue online, is another.

Taylor Crow, who works in sales, says she is "fairly good" at networking because it was something she focused on at university.

"I sent over 200 cold DMs on LinkedIn and reached out to people in the companies I wanted to work at while I was studying."

She says it was "so awkward", but it was something she had to do to get the job she wanted.

Her colleague Vicky Peterlin, 24, agrees. "It's not about being good at networking but more about not being afraid to reach out to people.

"I had thoughts about how I'm not qualified to have these conversations but then you realise there are no rules and sending out emails and messages are free and easy.

"The worst that can happen is that they say no and that's ok."

Katherine Leopold, a tutor at Greenwich Business School, says the same. She says the biggest challenge is making the first move, but if you do not take that step, you are "ruling yourself out".

The number of applications organisations are handling is "absolutely enormous", so try to meet employers in person and show them your total authentic story, she advises.

"Ensure you say to them, 'I have this skill, I have this piece of knowledge, so I'm confident that your team is stronger with me in it.'"

Madison Brown works in tech partnerships, after previously spending 10 years in corporate jobs.

Madison says it is important to be authentic and intentional when reaching out to people.

He gets many young people contacting him for career advice and opportunities, and says many of them could be much clearer about what they are looking for.

"There's nothing wrong with saying what your goal is or what you want to get out of this interaction."

He adds that it is important to be yourself and "more doors will open if you are authentic".