"It’s not what you know, it’s who you know." We’ve all heard it, and we all hate it. It makes networking feel like a private club you don't have the password for.
But in 2026, networking is just intentional curiosity. In part three of our series, we’re breaking down how to "lurk" your way into the industry.
If the word "networking" makes you think of awkward small talk in a crowded room, you’re doing it wrong. In 2026, the most effective networking happens from the comfort of your couch.
Networking is just research with a human element. It’s about finding the people who have the job you want and asking them how they got there—not asking them for a job.
The Lurk and Learn Strategy
Before you send a single connection request, you need to warm up your presence. Here is how to use LinkedIn as a research tool:
The "People" Tab Hack:
- Go to the LinkedIn page of a company you love (like a Hamilton agency or a global brand). Click the "People" tab andfilterby "Mohawk College." You now have a list of alumni who sat in the same classrooms as you.
Intelligent Lurking:
- Follow these alumni. Read their posts. Comment something thoughtful like, "I loved your point about [Topic],we just discussed this in my Art Direction class!"
The Result: When you eventually reach out, you aren't a stranger. You’re "that student who leaves great comments."
The "Informational Interview" Script
Once you’ve lurked for a week or two, send a message. The goal is a 15-minute "Coffee Chat" (virtual or in-person).
Think of a coffee chat as a chill, 15-minute "get to know you" over a latte where you pick someone’s brain about what they do. It’s way less intense than a job interview since you're just there to soak up some advice and make a solid connection.
It’s basically the professional version of grabbing a coffee to see if you can learn some tricks of the trade.
Here is a quick checklist for a solid outreach message:
The Intro: Keep it quick. Just your name, what year you’re in, and what program you are in.
The "Fan" Moment: Call out a specific project they worked on. Mention exactly what drew you to it so they know you aren't copy-pasting this to everyone.
The "Pick Your Brain" Ask: Be super clear that you only want 15-30 minutes of their time for a virtual coffee.
The Specific Hook: Mention you want to hear their "origin story"—specifically how they navigated the move from college to an actual role.
Why this works: It’s specific, it’s short, and it’s a low-stakes ask. Most people love talking about themselves and helping students.
Local Hamilton Hubs
Don't just stay behind a screen. Hamilton’s creative scene is built on “showing up."
- YEP (Young Ever-evolving Professionals): Check out their Spring Socials (often at places like MERIT Brewing). These are low-pressure events designed specifically for people starting their careers.
Pros:
- Access to the "Hidden Job Market" (jobs that are never posted online).
- Build a support systemofmentors.
- Boosts your confidenceforreal interviews.
Networking isn't about who you know; it's about who knows that you're curious, capable, and eager.