Breaking into tech isn’t just all about technical skills – it’s about building connections. Whether you’re changing careers, fresh out of university, or exploring new opportunities, networking can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
The best part is you don’t need to be the most confident person in the room. With a bit of preparation and the right approach, networking (both online and offline) can quickly become one of your strongest tools for landing a role in tech.
Our Recruitment Coordinator, Gemma Smith, shares top ways you can use LinkedIn and Careers Fairs to build your network and fast-track your transition into tech.
Why Online and Offline Networking Both Matter
When people think of networking, they often picture busy rooms, name badges, and handshakes – but in today’s tech world, networking happens just as much online as it does in person. To give yourself the best chance of landing a role in tech, you need to make the most of both.
Online platforms like LinkedIn help you build visibility, share your journey, and connect with people you might never meet otherwise. Offline events like careers fairs and industry meet‑ups give you the chance to build real‑time rapport, ask deeper questions, and leave a memorable impression. Let’s explore both methods.
Networking Online via LinkedIn
Using LinkedIn helps you build visibility long before you meet an employer (like us!) face‑to‑face. A strong profile, regular engagement, and thoughtful messages can put you on the radar of hiring managers, recruitment teams, and people already working in the roles you want.
It’s a space where you can share your learning journey, ask questions, join conversations, and connect with people you might never meet otherwise.
“I mainly use LinkedIn when searching for new candidates for our Academy and our clients. Your LinkedIn profile is your digital first impression – so it’s really important to make it count. It’s also the perfect place to showcase your personality, your skills, and your potential.”
Gemma Smith
Recruitment Coordinator
Attending Careers Fairs (Offline networking)
Careers fairs are the perfect place to start your journey into tech and it’s the best chance to make a memorable first impression. upsups
By attending in-person events like careers fairs or industry meetups, it brings your existing connections to life and helps you meet organisations (like Corecom Tech Academy!) who can support your next steps.
Speaking to someone in person helps you build rapport quickly and leaves a lasting impression. You can gain advice from industry experts who are there to help you make the most of your early career journey.
“Staying curious is the best way to make the most of any careers fair. We regularly attend Careers Fairs so that’s the perfect opportunity to ask us about roles, tech stacks, insights into the tech industry, and you can find out what life at Corecom Tech Academy is like. With many routes into tech, we’re always happy to chat and guide you in the right direction.”
Gemma Smith
Recruitment Coordinator
Final Thoughts
Breaking into tech gets much easier when you start to put yourself out there.
By combining online and offline networking, you boost your visibility and open yourself up to far more opportunities within the tech industry. This blend of online visibility and in‑person connection is one of the most effective ways to stand out in the tech job market.
You can also connect with us on LinkedIn to see all our insights and latest tech opportunities. Say hello, grab some advice, and discover how we help people kick‑start their tech careers with confidence.
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