age of networking

Sometimes I ask myself: where do I fit in the digital age? I still remember the days of CDs and still Walkmans, which probably says a lot about my generation.

But I also believe that experience brings a unique perspective and adaptability - something valuable in today's rapidly evolving society.

I remember when I first started on the job market - finding a job was quite difficult.

Back then, everything seemed to depend on who you knew: someone who could recommend you for a good position - a colleague, an uncle, your mother asking her contacts.

Only at the very end did merit come into play - your studies, persistence, courage, and perseverance.

I see a similar trend today. If you don't network, you're less visible. But networking has to be done the right way. When you're job hunting, you can't always say it out loud ; sometimes it’s just about being present and visible.

Navigating between opportunities where others have stronger networks, unpredictable AI-driven hiring strategies, last-minute company changes : ("We've decided to put the role on hold," "Unfortunately, we're cancelling the job offer," "Your journey with Company XYZ ends here"), and even recruiter ghosting… it all makes today's job market feel less like the creative Matrix on screen and more like a tough reality - because it’s real, not a movie.

So, networking is often seen as a way to get a job, yet at the same time it’s promoted as a path to building genuine connections. But is that really the case?

A genuine connection should also exist within the workplace - through exchanging ideas, finding inspiration, and creating safe spaces for women in tech (and for women in general). These connections remind us how important it is to support each other, not just in words but in everyday actions.

There’s nothing wrong with asking if there are job opportunities - why should there be?

I recently read a post on LinkedIn where someone said her contacts should stop asking if there were open positions in her company because she's not working in HR!

But people are simply doing their best to find opportunities.

Many companies even have referral programs - so what’s wrong with asking?

Networking, when grounded in empathy and inclusivity, should be about helping others navigate uncertain times, not drawing boundaries around who is 'allowed' to ask.

Yesterday, I came across a rather arrogant post claiming that not landing a job is always the candidate's fault , because they're unprepared, their CV isn't professional enough, or their profile isn't clear.

But we all know that recruitment today is far more complex. AI plays a significant role in the process, and while it helps streamline hiring, it can also introduce biases. As a result, many strong candidates are rejected before ever having the chance to interview.

Recognising this trend is important - and we should focus on improving systems, fostering fairness, and developing greater cognitive agility in how we assess talent.

Before judging or ignoring a message, please put yourself in the shoes of someone who’s currently job hunting.

Have a great day!

#networking #jobhunting2025 #hrtrends

(photo A. Joubert, Florence)