Stop Mass Applying. Start Mass Connecting.
- fullifecoaching
- Mar 14
- 3 min read
My favorite job search advice these days? Act like electronic job boards don’t exist.
There have been way too many job seekers come to me lately saying, “I’ve applied to over 200 jobs!” as if it’s a badge of honor.
If I’m being 100% honest: It’s a failed strategy.
There’s no gold medal for mass applying, and there’s certainly not a badge of honor when your 200 applications land you just one or two interviews.
The Harsh Reality of Applying Online
The truth is, today's application system is built to make you fail.
Most applications get discarded by Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software before they ever reach a human recruiter’s eyes. That means all your effort—tailoring resumes, tweaking cover letters, and clicking “submit” hundreds of times—is mostly wasted.
Here's what to do instead of leaning on applications: mass connecting.
Here’s how to mass connect with professionals:
Make a list of companies you’d be excited to work for.
Think about the industries, company cultures, and missions that truly align with your career goals and values.
Consider not only well-known companies but also mid-sized and smaller organizations that may have incredible opportunities. Make sure to research their reputation, employee reviews, and growth potential to ensure they are a good fit for you.
Aim for a list of at least 10-20 companies that genuinely excite you.
Check their company website for job opportunities.
Go beyond job boards and head straight to the company’s official careers page.
Many organizations prioritize internal listings before posting jobs on third-party sites. While you’re there, explore their mission statement, recent news, and any press releases that give insight into what they’re currently focusing on.
This knowledge will help you craft a more targeted application and prepare for networking conversations.
Look to see if you currently have any LinkedIn connections who work at that company.
Open LinkedIn and use the People tab / search bar to find employees working at the companies on your list.
If you already have direct connections at these companies, great! Reach out to them first.
Even if you haven’t spoken in a while, you can start with a warm message reminding them how you’re connected and expressing interest in learning more about their experience working there.
If you don’t, look to see if you have mutual connections to those at your company of interest.
These are called 2nd-degree connections—people who are connected to your existing LinkedIn network.
A simple introduction request can help you expand your reach and create valuable new connections.
Another organic way to build up 2nd degree connections: Alumni networks. This is a powerful yet often underutilized tool in job searching. Most universities have LinkedIn alumni groups where you can find and reach out to graduates working at companies you’re targeting.
Then, send a message (this can be on LinkedIn) to them, asking them to connect on a 15-minute Zoom call to learn what it’s like to work for that company.
When reaching out, keep your message short, polite, and specific. Introduce yourself, mention your mutual connection (if applicable), and express genuine interest in learning about their role and company culture.
Here’s a simple template:
Hi [Name], I came across your profile while researching [Company Name] and noticed that we share a [mutual connection/university background]. I’m really interested in learning more about what it’s like to work there. Would you be open to a quick 15-minute Zoom chat? I’d love to hear about your experience. Thanks in advance!
This approach makes the interaction feel personal and low-pressure, increasing the chances of getting a response.
Why This Works
This strategy gets your name in front of the right people and bypasses the ATS robots. Hiring decisions aren’t just about qualifications—they’re about relationships, trust, and personal recommendations.
By networking and having real conversations, you become a real person in the hiring manager’s eyes, not just another resume in a stack of hundreds.
This is my genuine, loving plea to all you job seekers out there: PLEASE stop mass applying and start mass connecting—face-to-face, human to human.
Ali Goodin Certified Career Coach in Central FL
I'm a former Disney employee, graphic designer turned career coach, and job transition expert. I created Ful Life Coaching to give professionals of all ages & stages a safe space to navigate career transition. My passion is equipping professionals with the tools and confidence they need to transition in their careers – from launch to retirement – so they can live happier, healthier lives.
