LinkedIn research shows that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, and networked hires earn 25% more on average than those who apply through job boards. But the impact goes beyond job searching:
- Promotion Velocity: Well-networked professionals get promoted 5x faster - Salary Premiums: Strong networks correlate with 20-50% higher compensation - Opportunity Flow: 70% of senior roles never get posted publicly - Business Generation: 92% of consulting/side income comes through relationships