The Power of Networking: How to Land Jobs Through Connections
In today’s job market, it’s not just what you know—but who you know. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a mid-career professional, networking remains one of the most powerful ways to land jobs in Kenya.
If you’ve been applying for jobs and hearing nothing back, it might be time to shift strategies. This article will show you how to build strong professional connections and use them to discover hidden job opportunities.
📌 What Is Networking (and Why Does It Matter)?
Networking is building relationships with people who can offer guidance, share job leads, or connect you with hiring managers.
According to global hiring studies, up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking—not public job ads. In Kenya, this is especially true in:
NGOs and international organisations
Government agencies
Private sector companies
Startups and SMEs
💡 7 Reasons Networking Works in Kenya
Many jobs aren’t advertised publicly
Referrals build instant trust with employers
You get insider info before applying
Faster interview invites
More confidence and clarity during job search
Access to mentorship
Opportunities for career growth
🚀 How to Build a Network That Works for You
1. Start With Who You Know
You don’t need to be connected to CEOs. Start small:
Former classmates
Lecturers
Colleagues
Church members
Neighbours
LinkedIn contacts
📱 Reach out, say hello, and let them know what you’re looking for.
2. Create a Strong LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is the best digital networking tool for Kenyan professionals in 2025. Make sure to:
Upload a professional photo
Add your skills and achievements
Follow companies you want to work for
Engage with posts and share insights
✅ Bonus: Use the “Open to Work” feature.
3. Attend Events and Webinars
Look out for:
Career fairs
Professional meetups (physical or virtual)
NGO or embassy-hosted events
Industry-specific webinars
🎤 Prepare a quick intro (elevator pitch) so people remember you.
4. Join Online Communities
Facebook Groups: “Jobs in Kenya”, “Freelance Kenya”, etc.
WhatsApp Groups (join from trusted sources)
Telegram job alert channels
LinkedIn Groups
💬 Don’t just lurk—participate. Ask questions, give value, and connect.
5. Ask for Informational Interviews
Reach out to someone in a company or field you admire. Say:
“Hi, I admire your work in [field]. I’m looking to grow in this area and would love to learn from your experience. Can we connect for a quick chat?”
🧠 Learn from their career journey, and they might refer you when an opening arises.
6. Follow Up and Stay in Touch
Relationships take time to grow. Send a quick message every few months to check in, congratulate someone on a new role, or share a useful article.
📨 “Hi [Name], I saw your post on [topic]—really insightful! Hope all is well on your end.”
7. Be Helpful Too
Networking is a two-way street. Help others by:
Sharing job leads
Connecting friends
Offering feedback or encouragement
🤝 Give value, and it’ll come back to you.
🧠 Real Networking Success Story
“I used to apply for 20 jobs a week with no luck. Then I asked a friend in HR to review my CV and connect me to her network. Within two weeks, I got an interview—and landed a role as a customer support agent in Nairobi!”
– Brian, 27, Thika
📄 How to Mention Your Network in a Job Application
📝 In your email or cover letter:
“I was referred to this role by [Name], who spoke highly of the company culture and team.”
🤫 Tip: Always ask permission before name-dropping someone.
🔐 Bonus: How to Build Confidence for Networking (Even If You’re Shy)
Practice what to say beforehand
Use LinkedIn messages or emails if face-to-face is tough
Start with one connection at a time
Remind yourself: Most people are happy to help!
🎯 Final Thoughts: Your Next Job Is One Conversation Away
In Kenya’s competitive job market, networking isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re fresh out of campus or switching careers, tapping into your network could be the shortcut to your dream job.
✅ Take Action Today
Update your LinkedIn profile
Text 3 people in your network and let them know you’re job hunting
Join a Facebook or LinkedIn group in your field
Attend one networking event this month
Bookmark www.dreamjob.co.ke for job updates and career tips
Remember: People hire people. Let your network work for you.
