Expand your network

A network is something you build – and something you can benefit from your whole life. It's relationships. The larger your network, the more opportunities. Here you'll get concrete ways to expand it.

Take the initiative yourself

When you want to expand your network, you need to be the active one. Don't wait for others to reach out – it rarely happens by itself.

If you want a job within the foreseeable future, you need to take the initiative yourself.

Concrete ways to expand your network

1. Attend professional events

This could be events, workshops, or webinars from your unemployment fund (A-kasse), your educational institution, or local networking groups.

Here you meet people from the industry – and perhaps someone who knows of open positions.

2. Follow companies on social media

Many companies share news and events on LinkedIn. If they hold an open house or celebrate something, show up.

It's an obvious chance to talk with people from the company.

3. Visit trade fairs and industry events

You don't have to wait for a job fair. At professional trade fairs, there are often fewer job seekers – and better opportunity to talk with people who are passionate about what they do.

4. Contact recruitment and temp agencies

Send your CV and follow up with a friendly approach. Ask if they'd take a brief chat and keep you in mind for future recruitment.

5. Find leaders and professionals on LinkedIn

Spend time finding people you'd like to learn from. Send a personal message when you request a connection.

Many are happy to help if you show genuine interest.

6. Suggest a coffee meeting

Contact a leader at a company you're interested in. Write or call directly.

Briefly explain what piques your curiosity and ask if they'd meet for an informal chat. It doesn't have to be about a job right now – but it can open doors later.

Keep track of your network

When you meet new people:

• Save their contact information
• Send a friendly message afterward
• Add them to your network list

This keeps the relationship alive – and they now have your contact information.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for others to reach out: Take the initiative yourself
• Only attending job fairs: Professional events are often better
• Forgetting to follow up: Always send a message afterward
• Not noting contacts: Save everything to your list

Practical tips

• Set a goal: Meet one new person per week
• Use LinkedIn actively to find and contact people
• Follow companies you're interested in
• Attend an event this week
• Always have your CV ready to share

Try it yourself

1. Find one event this week (professional event, webinar, fair)
2. Attend and talk to at least one new person
3. Send a LinkedIn request afterward
4. Add the person to your network list

Frequently asked questions

Next step

Now you have concrete ways to expand your network. Do you want help making a concrete plan? In the next guide, you'll learn to use AI to create a networking plan.