Why Personal Connections Beat Online Applications for Landing Interviews

Career counselors say networking inside a company is often more effective than relying solely on digital applications, especially for early-career job seekers.

In a hiring landscape where many firms move slowly, advisors suggest that networking within target companies can be the decisive factor for securing interviews, particularly for those just starting out. Andy Chan, who leads personal and career development at Wake Forest University, notes that referrals often carry more weight than a polished résumé. Madeline Mann advises candidates to research both the employer and the contact before requesting a brief informational interview.

Jane Curran, global head of HR operations at JLL, urges applicants to apply for suitable roles and then actively seek internal connections via LinkedIn. Catherine Fisher adds that networking can be as simple as commenting on a post or sending a friendly message, while Kathleen Powell reminds job seekers to optimize their resumes for keyword scans by applicant-tracking software. Together, these tips form a roadmap that blends relationship building with strategic application practices.