Networking Isn’t Just for Job Seekers — It’s a Career Skill for Everyone
If you're not actively job searching but want to support others in your network who are, you may wonder what value you can bring.
Here's the truth: You don’t need to be a hiring manager or recruiter to be an invaluable networking contact.
Especially in an industry like CPG—where change is constant and connections are key—your willingness to show up with insight and intentionality matters more than ever.
Why It Matters: The CPG Job Market Is Complex
People navigating the job search in CPG are dealing with:
🔹 A shortage of openings in niche areas like digital, analytics, and omnichannel.
🔹 The cultural fit tightrope — even highly qualified candidates can get passed over if they don’t align with leadership style or org values.
🔹 Shifting consumer expectations that influence which skills are most in demand.
You can help by offering clarity, sharing your perspective, and connecting people in meaningful ways.
1️⃣ Prepare for the Conversation
If someone reaches out to you for a networking call:
✔️ Take five minutes to review their LinkedIn. Understand their background so you can tailor your conversation.
✔️ Skim recent CPG news or trends. If they ask, “What’s top of mind in the industry?”—you’ll have something current to share.
Your preparation shows respect—and makes the conversation more useful.
2️⃣ Ask Open-Ended Questions That Create Insight
Instead of launching into your story, let them lead with their goals.
Try asking:
- “What part of the CPG space are you most drawn to right now?”
- “Where are you finding the most traction—or frustration—in your search?”
- “What kind of company culture are you hoping to find?”
The goal: help them articulate their path—not impress them with yours.
3️⃣ Share Industry Context and Personal Insight
Your lived experience is valuable. Use it to:
✔️ Translate the jargon of how things really work at your company or in the market.
✔️ Talk honestly about culture, leadership styles, or dynamics they may not see on a job posting.
✔️ Offer advice you wish someone had given you at their stage.
Even if you’re not hiring, this kind of transparency builds real trust.
What Not to Do When Supporting Someone in a Job Search
Even with the best intentions, some advice can land flat—or feel like a brush-off. Here's what to avoid:
🚫 Don’t default to résumé feedback unless they ask for it
Unsolicited feedback—especially from someone outside their target function—can distract more than it helps.
🚫 Don’t say “Just keep checking the website”
By the time a job is posted, the internal conversations have likely been happening for weeks. A warm intro is worth more than any application portal.
🚫 Don’t offer generic advice
If you’re not active in hiring, avoid phrases like “just keep applying” or “it’s all about timing.” They may be true, but they aren’t actionable.
Instead:
✔️ Share specific insights or offers of help
✔️ Ask who you can introduce them to
✔️ Encourage them with something real: “I know it’s tough out there. You’re doing the right things. Keep going.”
4️⃣ Offer Practical Support
This could look like:
- Introducing them to someone else in your network
- Forwarding a job you saw posted internally
- Recommending a recruiter, a course, or a resource
Don’t underestimate how much a warm introduction or well-placed suggestion can help.
5️⃣ Follow Up and Stay in Touch
After the call:
✔️ Send a quick thank-you message or follow-up
✔️ Connect on LinkedIn (if you haven’t already)
✔️ Engage with their posts or check in every few months
The goal isn’t a one-time transaction—it’s a relationship.
Want to Be That Person People Remember? Start Here.
Being an exceptional networking contact isn’t about being the loudest, most connected, or most senior person in the room.
It’s about:
✅ Being present
✅ Asking good questions
✅ Sharing generously
✅ Following through
And that’s something anyone—at any level—can do.
Want to Build a Career That Grows Through Relationships?
Want more insights on how to grow your network, support others, and expand your opportunities? Connect with me on LinkedIn and mention this blog in your invitation to get your free Career guide.
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