We all know that sinking feeling.

You’ve worked hard, delivered results, and built a strong reputation within your company. But when that exciting opportunity comes up—whether it’s a high-profile promotion, a board seat, or a dream role in another organisation—it goes to someone else. Someone with less experience. Someone who knows the right people.

It’s an uncomfortable truth that career progression, especially at the senior level, has less to do with your capability and far more to do with your visibility.

Here’s the truth: up to 80% of jobs are never advertised. They’re filled through existing networks, quiet conversations, and direct approaches. It’s what we call the hidden job market, and if you’re not actively playing in it, you’re leaving your career to chance.

Strategic Networking Isn’t Just Nice to Have—It’s Career Insurance

Many executives I coach initially view networking as optional—something they’ll “get to later” when things calm down. But in today’s unpredictable corporate environment, strategic networking is your career safety net. It ensures you remain visible, relevant, and connected to the right people who can help you navigate change and seize opportunity.

A LinkedIn survey found that 85% of all jobs are filled through networking, and that 70% of hiring managers say a strong personal brand is more important than a strong resume. That’s why your network is no longer a “nice to have”—it’s a business-critical asset.

The Three Networks That Matter Most

In my SHINE program, I teach executives that there are three essential types of networks—and most people are only focused on one:

1. Operational Network – These are your colleagues and direct reports. They help you get your job done.
2. Personal Network – Friends, family, and trusted advisors. A great support system, but often not connected to your industry.
3. Strategic Network – The most powerful of all. These are the influencers, decision-makers, connectors, and champions who can advocate for you when you’re not in the room.

Most professionals neglect this third group. And without it, you’re invisible to the people who matter most when it comes to hiring, promoting, and referring.

From Redundancy to the Space Industry

Let me share a powerful example. One of my clients, Kathy, faced a sudden redundancy during COVID. Her industry was heavily impacted, and her network, while once strong, was no longer active or relevant. Rather than panic, she saw it as a reset.

Together, we rebuilt her brand and activated a strategic network in the STEM sector—an area she was passionate about but had no prior experience in. By sharing her insights publicly, nurturing connections with leaders in the space industry, and showing up consistently online, she was able to reposition herself. Today, she works with a company building machines for the moon. Talk about a career leap!

Kathy didn’t wait for someone to discover her. She made herself discoverable by the right people.

Networking Doesn’t Have to Be Cringey or Time-Consuming
Let’s bust a myth: strategic networking isn’t about schmoozing at cocktail parties or sending awkward LinkedIn DMs. It’s about creating meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships that expand your influence and uncover new paths.

If you’re an introvert or pressed for time, the idea of “networking” might feel exhausting. But here’s the thing—you can network effectively in just one hour per week. It’s about consistency, not volume. A thoughtful comment on a post, a quick follow-up message, or sharing a useful insight can go a long way.

As one executive client of mine put it, “I didn’t realise how much power was in my network until I started showing up in the right way.”

The Influence Equation

Being known is great—but being known for something valuable is where the real magic happens.

Influence = Visibility + Credibility

This is why building thought leadership, sharing your unique insights, and having a clear message is so important. People need to know who you are, what you stand for, and how you can help them. That’s what makes your name come up in the right rooms—even when you’re not there.