Stop Saying “I’m Looking for a Job” at Networking Events. Here’s why

Discover why saying "I'm looking for a job" at networking events might be hurting your chances. Learn how to approach networking strategically and open doors to better career opportunities.

I learned this the hard way.

It was 2021, I was fresh out of a college, armed with a LinkedIn profile that screamed "open to work," and determined to land my next gig by hitting up every networking event in town. I had my elevator pitch ready, my suit slightly over-ironed (don’t ask), and a smile that was probably too eager.

Jaynish Shah’s old Linkedin profile from 2021. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahjaynish/)

What did I do wrong?

At every event, I walked up to people, shook hands, and said, "Hey, I'm looking for a job. Do you know anyone hiring?" And let me tell you, nothing kills a conversation faster than that. It’s like telling someone on a first date, "I need a life partner ASAP. Are you available?" Red Flaggggggg 🚩

What I Learned (After Failing Miserably)

Here’s the thing - networking isn’t about asking for a job, it’s about building relationships. When you introduce yourself as someone looking for a job, you put people in an awkward position. It makes them feel like you’re there to take, not to contribute.

And in the world of networking (and dating, honestly), desperation is unattractive. 🙃

Instead, here’s what I wish I had done:

Talk about your interests, not your unemployment. Instead of saying, "I need a job," try, "I’ve always been fascinated by how technology and algorithms can shape decision-making processes. Whether it's optimizing code or improving system efficiency, I love how data-driven insights influence every aspect of software development." (I later realized this approach works wonders when pitching yourself, just like when pitching a business. More on the right and the wrong way to your pitch.

Offer value first. Instead of “I need a job,” try “I recently worked on a project that optimized task management process with help of algorithms. Would love to hear your thoughts on the future of Task Management.” (Ironically, I learned this lesson only after making some painful mistakes at networking events. Read more about what all wrong things I did at networking networking.

Make the conversation about them. Ask questions. Be curious. People love talking about themselves. (Pro tip: Read How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.)

The Data Behind Networking (Why This Works)

Networking isn’t just about who you know. It’s about who knows you and what they remember you for. Research shows that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, but guess what? Most people don’t remember or recommend the person who simply said, “I need a job.”

They remember the person who had insightful conversations, who provided value, who was genuinely fun to talk to.

Think about it:

Would you rather help the person who bored you with a generic job request or the one who engaged you in a meaningful discussion about your industry, made you laugh, and left a great impression? Exactly.

How I Fixed My Networking Game (And How You Can Too)

After my series of networking failures, I changed my approach:

1. I stopped asking for a job - Instead, I talked about projects, interests, and industry insights.

2. I positioned myself as someone valuable. - I shared knowledge, helped others, and gave before I took.

3. I followed up with meaningful connections. - Not “Hey, do you have a job for me?” but “Hey, I loved our conversation about algorithms. Here’s an article I came across that reminded me of it.

And guess what? The job offers started coming - not from me asking, but from them reaching out.

Networking is a skill that can be hacked, and I figured out how to do it right. If you’re looking for ways to master it, check out this guide about mastering networking events.

Final Thoughts

So next time you’re at a networking event, resist the urge to blurt out, "I’m looking for a job." Instead, make it about them, offer insights, and be someone people want to help.

Who knows? The next opportunity might just come to you - without you even asking. 😉

Speaking of networking, I’m hosting networking events for tech startups, and I’d love to meet you there! Let’s connect in person, exchange ideas, and see how we can help each other grow in NYC on March 06 (Thursday).

If you have any suggestions for making these events even better, feel free to reach out on my LinkedIn or contact me from here. Let’s build something amazing together! 🚀

Curious about the March 6th event by Startup+? You can register using the below link.

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If you enjoyed this, let’s connect on LinkedIn or check out my insights on www.jaynish.me