In-person and online networking referrals are key, yet represent only 1% of applications, resulting in a 50% interview rate and 16% hire rate, per Ashby (https://www.ashbyhq.com). The most effective method is to identify a few companies and roles you’re genuinely interested in, then tailor your application materials and networking efforts to each, showing curiosity, enthusiasm, and strong fit.

Both approaches have value. While online networking is convenient and lets you reach more people quickly, no matter where you are, it can feel impersonal. In-person networking builds stronger, more memorable connections, though it takes more time and effort and is limited by location and scheduling.

Online networking is fast, convenient, and gets you in rooms you’d never access otherwise. But it can be shallow and easy to ignore. In-person networking takes more effort, yet it builds trust faster and creates real follow-up. The best approach is mixing both: use online to open doors, use in-person to actually move opportunities forward.

Online networking is flexible and helps you reach people you might never meet, but it’s less personal, and relationships take longer to build. In-person networking builds rapport faster; you can read body language, pick up social cues, and have more personal, spontaneous, memorable conversations, but it requires more time and planning. A mix of both offers the best of both worlds.

I recommend utilizing as many opportunities as possible to grow your network. Both offer ways to meet new people. Online networking events may be harder to find specific people you want to connect with. The key is to find a few target contacts that you can then follow up with and meet with one-on-one after the event.

Online is best for ease, convenience, reach, speed, research, applying, and finding the people you need to connect with offline. In-person creates trust faster, is more memorable, and the connection is immediate and warmer. It’s always nice to shake hands in person and have a face-to-face conversation. In both cases, follow up with value. What did you learn? What can you do for them?​

In-person offers deeper, more genuine connections and stronger first impressions, but it’s limited by geography and availability and can require more planning and energy. Online networking gives broader access to professionals across industries and locations, and availability can be easier to arrange. But building an authentic relationship can take longer, and interactions may feel less personal.