Why Networking Matters More Than You Think
Here's a reality check: most jobs—especially senior ones—are filled through relationships, not applications. Whether you're pursuing one of the top exit opportunities for consultants or targeting a specific role, your network is one of your greatest assets. The question is how to use it effectively.
The Networking Mindset Shift
From Transactional to Relational
The wrong approach:
"Can you help me get a job at your company?"
The right approach:
"I'm exploring opportunities in your industry. I'd love to learn from your experience and perspective."
The difference? One asks for a favor immediately. The other builds a relationship that may lead to opportunities naturally.
From Desperate to Curious
Networking feels uncomfortable when you're asking for something. It feels natural when you're genuinely curious.
Reframe your conversations:
- Not "I need a job" but "I want to understand this industry better"
- Not "Can you refer me?" but "What advice would you give someone in my position?"
- Not "Are you hiring?" but "What makes someone successful in your role?"
The Three Circles of Your Network
Circle 1: Your Consulting Network
Who they are:
- Former colleagues now in industry roles
- Clients you've worked with closely
- Partners and principals who know your work
- Consulting school classmates
Why they matter:
They know your capabilities firsthand and want to help you succeed.
How to leverage:
- Reach out directly—they expect it
- Be specific about what you're looking for
- Offer to help them in return (referrals, advice, etc.)
- Keep relationships warm even when you're not job searching
Circle 2: Your Extended Network
Who they are:
- Alumni from your school
- People you've met at conferences or events
- Connections from extracurricular activities
- Friends of friends in your target industry
Why they matter:
They can provide industry insights and second-degree introductions.
How to leverage:
- Use warm introductions when possible
- Reference your common connection
- Offer value before asking for help
- Follow up and maintain the relationship
Circle 3: New Connections
Who they are:
- People in roles you're targeting
- Thought leaders in your target industry
- Recruiters specializing in your transition
- Other career changers who've made similar moves
Why they matter:
They expand your reach and bring fresh perspectives.
How to leverage:
- Focus on learning, not asking
- Provide value first (share relevant content, make introductions)
- Be patient—these relationships take time to develop
- Use LinkedIn thoughtfully (see below)
Tactical Networking Strategies
The Informational Interview (Done Right)
Before the meeting:
- Research the person and company thoroughly
- Prepare thoughtful questions (just as you would for a case interview)
- Have a clear (but not demanding) goal
During the meeting:
- Ask about their journey and lessons learned
- Seek advice on your transition
- Listen more than you talk
- DON'T ask for a job directly
After the meeting:
- Send a thank-you note within 24 hours
- Reference something specific from the conversation
- Offer to help with something if possible
- Follow up with updates on your journey
The Coffee Meeting Playbook
Requesting the meeting:
"Hi [Name], I'm [Your Name], currently at [Company]. I'm exploring [industry/role] transitions and came across your profile—your path from [consulting] to [current role] is really interesting. Would you be open to a brief coffee or call? I'd love to learn from your experience. Happy to work around your schedule."
Questions to ask:
- How did you make the transition from consulting?
- What surprised you about your new role/industry?
- What skills from consulting transferred well? What did you have to develop?
- What advice would you give someone in my position?
- Is there anyone else you'd recommend I speak with?
Following up:
"Thank you again for your time yesterday. Your insight about [specific thing] was particularly helpful. I'll definitely [action based on their advice]. I'd love to stay in touch—I'll reach out with updates on my search. Please let me know if I can ever be helpful to you."
LinkedIn Strategies
Optimizing your profile ([LinkedIn's own guidance](https://www.linkedin.com/business/talent/blog/product-tips/linkedin-profile-tips)):
- Clear headline indicating your transition goal
- Summary that tells your story and value proposition
- Detailed experience highlighting transferable skills
- Skills section aligned with target roles
Engaging thoughtfully:
- Comment substantively on posts (not just "Great post!")
- Share relevant industry content with your perspective
- Congratulate connections on achievements
- Write occasional posts about your transition journey
Cold outreach (when necessary):
- Personalize every message
- Reference something specific about their work
- Make a small, specific ask
- Keep it short (3-4 sentences max)
Building Long-Term Relationships
The 5-5-5 Weekly Routine
Spend 30 minutes per week:
- 5 minutes: Check in with someone you haven't talked to recently
- 5 minutes: Engage with your network's content on LinkedIn
- 5 minutes: Reach out to one new connection
The Give-First Philosophy
Before asking for anything, offer value:
- Share a relevant article or resource
- Make an introduction that could help them
- Provide insight from your consulting experience
- Congratulate them on achievements
The Long Game
The best networking isn't about your current job search—it's about building relationships that will help you throughout your career. See how Bain alumni leveraged their networks to build remarkable careers.
Actions to take:
- Stay in touch even after you land a job
- Pay it forward by helping others transition
- Become a connector who brings people together
- Share your expertise generously
Common Networking Mistakes
Mistake 1: Only Networking When You Need Something
Fix: Make networking a habit, not an emergency response.
Mistake 2: Being Too Transactional
Fix: Focus on building relationships, not closing deals.
Mistake 3: Not Following Up
Fix: Send thank-you notes and periodic updates.
Mistake 4: Casting Too Wide a Net
Fix: Focus on quality conversations over quantity.
Mistake 5: Underselling Yourself
Fix: Know your value and communicate it confidently.
Conclusion
Networking isn't about collecting contacts—it's about building genuine relationships that create mutual value. Whether you're seeking better work-life balance or a high-growth opportunity, approach networking with curiosity, generosity, and patience, and it will become one of your most powerful career tools.
NextStep provides networking opportunities with ex-consultants across industries who can provide guidance and introductions for your transition.
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