There's really only one way to get a new job these days

Making connections with people is one of the best ways to stand out in your job search, say workplace observers. Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Updated 2026-05-11T09:01:01.244Z

Networking tends to be more important when the job market remains sluggish in some industries.

White-collar workers often don't have as much leverage as they did a few years ago.

Fostering genuine relationships can help job seekers stand out in competitive hiring processes .

Networking can feel awkward. It can also be one of the best ways to land a job right now.

Yet, if you're busy actually doing your job, it may feel like one more obligation competing for your attention. So, you like a few posts on LinkedIn and move on.

Unfortunately, that's not going to cut it, workplace observers say.…