How To Use AI To Improve Your Networking
Learn how to use AI to improve your networking experience. Discover simple prompts for crafting personalized LinkedIn requests, introductions, and more.
Let’s be real—networking can feel like a hassle, maybe even a little intimidating, right? When you’re busy job hunting, updating your resume, and prepping for interviews, reaching out to strangers is probably the last thing you feel like doing. want to do.
Here’s the thing: connecting with people is still one of the best ways to find great opportunities. It can help you access jobs that aren’t even posted (and no, I’m not talking about that 80% myth), get a warm intro to make your application stand out, or learn key insights about a company before you even apply. Networking makes all of that possible.
What if I told you there’s a way to make networking less stressful and way easier? A tool that helps you figure out who to talk to, what to say, and how to follow up.
That’s exactly where Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes in to help with your job search. Think of AI not as some complicated tech, but more like a handy co-pilot. It can take care of repetitive tasks and spark new ideas, so you can focus on the most important part: building real connections.
I’m not here to hit you with a bunch of tech jargon. I just want to have a simple conversation about how these tools can make networking more effective—and maybe even a little less overwhelming.
Use AI To Improve Your Networking
Looking for simple AI prompts to get started? Check out these foundational examples below designed to help you hit the ground running. Want to take it to the next level? Explore Prompts for Networking, where I share 9 advanced, pro-level prompts. These are longer, more detailed, and fully customizable to fit your unique needs.
Here’s a key tip: don’t limit yourself to just one AI tool! Try these prompts with popular platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity. Each AI delivers slightly different results, so experiment to find the best fit. Variety is part of the process!
If you’re actively job hunting, don’t miss the ChatGPT Prompts for Jobsearch e-book. Packed with AI-driven prompts, it’s the ultimate guide to boost your job search success, and using these prompts today will unlock powerful, tailored AI outputs!
Draft LinkedIn Connection Request
This prompt helps you craft a personalized LinkedIn connection request message that stands out. Instead of using the default message, sending a custom LinkedIn invitation significantly increases the chances of your request getting accepted.
The goal is to briefly explain why you want to connect, showing you've looked at their profile and have a genuine reason for reaching out.
Help me write a short LinkedIn connection request message.
I want to connect with [Person's Name], who works as a [Person's Job Title] at [Company Name].
My reason for connecting is [Your reason, e.g., I'm interested in their work in X field, I admire their company, We share a connection/group].
Keep the message under 300 characters.Instructions:
Replace [Person's Name] with the name of the person you want to connect with.
Replace [Person's Job Title] with their current job title.
Replace [Company Name] with the company they work for.
Replace [Your reason...] with a brief, genuine reason for wanting to connect. Be specific if possible (e.g., "I saw your recent post about AI," "I'm exploring roles at [Company Name]," "We're both members of the Marketing Professionals group").
Note: While AI can't target an exact character number, it uses length specifications as an approximate guide.
Request an Informational Interview
This prompt helps you write an email or message asking someone for an "informational interview." This isn't a job interview, but rather a short chat (usually 15-30 minutes) where you ask someone about their career path, industry, or company to learn more and get advice.
Help me write an email asking for an informational interview.
To: [Person's Name] ([Person's Job Title] at [Company Name])
From: [Your Name] ([Your relevant status, e.g., Student, Job Seeker in X field])
How I found them: [e.g., LinkedIn, mutual connection, saw them speak]
Goal: Learn more about their experience in [Their field/company/role].
Ask for: A brief 15-20 minute virtual chat.
Keep the email polite and respectful of their time.Instructions: Fill in the bracketed details: [Person's Name], [Person's Job Title], [Company Name], [Your Name], [Your relevant status], [How I found them], and [Their field/company/role].
Follow Up After Networking Event/Meeting
This prompt helps you write a brief message to send to someone you met recently at a networking event, conference, webinar, or meeting. Following up soon after meeting someone helps them remember you and strengthens the connection.
Help me write a short follow-up message (email or LinkedIn).
I met [Person's Name] from [Company Name, if known] at [Event/Context where you met].
We briefly talked about [Topic of conversation].
I want to thank them for the chat and stay connected.Instructions: Replace [Person's Name], [Company Name, if known], [Event/Context where you met], and [Topic of conversation] with the specific details of your meeting.
Develop a Networking Target List/Plan
Effective networking isn't just about talking to anyone; it's about connecting with the right people who can help you achieve your specific goals. This prompt helps you move beyond random outreach by creating a strategic list of individuals, companies, and groups to target based on your career objectives, industry interests, and desired roles.
Help me create a plan for who to network with.
My main goal is: [e.g., Find a job in X field, Learn more about Y industry, Find a mentor].
I am interested in these types of jobs/roles: [List 1-3 job titles or functions, e.g., Marketing Coordinator, Data Analyst, Project Manager].
I am interested in these types of companies or industries: [List 1-3 industries or specific company names, e.g., Tech startups, Renewable energy sector, Google, Non-profits].
Where can I find people who fit this description? Give me 3-4 places to look or ways to identify them.Instructions: Fill in your goal, target roles, and target companies/industries. The prompt will suggest places like LinkedIn, company websites, alumni databases, or professional groups where you can start searching for relevant people.
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Ask for a Referral/Introduction
This prompt helps you politely ask a connection for a job referral or an introduction to someone in their network. Job referrals and professional introductions are powerful tools to boost your chances during a job search.
However, asking for a referral requires tact and a simple, clear approach to make it easy for the other person to help. Learn how to request referrals effectively and increase your chances of landing your next job opportunity.
Help me write a message asking [Connection's Name] for help.
Option 1: Ask if they can refer me for the [Job Title] role (Job ID: [Job ID, if known]) at their company, [Company Name]. I've attached my resume.
Option 2: Ask if they can introduce me to someone they know who works in [Target Field/Role Type, e.g., UX Design, Healthcare IT].
Remind them how we know each other: [Our connection, e.g., worked together at X, met at Y event].
Make it easy for them to say no if they can't help.Simple Instructions: Choose either Option 1 (referral) or Option 2 (introduction) depending on your goal. Delete the option you don't need.
Handling Networking Follow-up When You Don't Hear Back
You sent a thoughtful networking message – perhaps requesting an informational interview, following up after an event, or reaching out to a new connection – but haven't received a response. It happens! People are busy.
This prompt helps you craft a polite, professional, and non-demanding second follow-up message to gently nudge your contact without seeming pushy, increasing your chances of getting a response while maintaining a positive impression.
Help me write a short follow-up message because I didn't hear back.
I sent my first message to [Person's Name] about [Reason for original message, e.g., asking for a quick chat, connecting on LinkedIn] on [Date sent, approx].
I haven't heard back yet. I want to send one brief reminder. Keep it polite and not pushy.Instructions: Fill in the person's name, the reason for your first message, and when you sent it. The prompt will give you a simple template for a gentle follow-up. Remember to wait about a week after the first message before sending this.
Discover Prompts for Networking, a guide featuring 9 simple and 9 advanced, professional networking prompts. These prompts are detailed, highly customizable, and designed to help you build meaningful connections. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their networking skills and stand out in professional settings.
AI: Your Best Tool for Smarter Networking
AI tools can make writing networking messages simpler and more effective. From crafting the perfect LinkedIn connection request to sending a strong follow-up message, AI takes the guesswork out of the process.
These tools don’t just automate tasks—they help you overcome the challenges of networking by providing a clear, guided strategy. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network or make a great first impression, AI can lower the barrier and make communication feel effortless.
