A recruiter said something to me recently that stopped me in my tracks.
I asked him about a few open roles I’d seen posted online. After a pause, he said: “Applying online isn’t the way. Let me try to find the hiring manager for you.”
That one sentence confirmed what many of us already feel but don’t always act on. We need to resist the urge to just hit “Apply.”
That “Easy Apply” button on LinkedIn may feel productive—but it’s often the least effective way to land a role.
A More Effective Way to Use LinkedIn
Here’s a smarter, more intentional approach:
Search the job title + company name in the LinkedIn search bar
Example: “Program Manager IBM”Click “People.”
This shows you individuals who currently hold that role at the company.Click into their profiles and check for mutual connections.
If you have one, ask that person for a warm introduction.No mutual connections?
Send a concise, thoughtful note requesting a brief introductory call.Have the intro call.
Simply introducing yourself to a real person and asking thoughtful questions dramatically increases your odds of a referral and/or getting your résumé seen by the hiring manager.Repeat steps 3–5 with at least 5 people per company.
Think of this as strategic repetition—or as I like to say, shooting your shot. Multiple touchpoints = higher probability of connection.Always end each call with:
“Is there anyone else you’d recommend I speak with?”
That’s how you multiply your network—intentionally.
The Truth About Job Searching
We live in a world where online applications are one of the least effective paths to a job offer. Your résumé is entering a massive pool, and even highly-qualified candidates get overlooked.
Here’s another truth that’s harder to swallow:
Who you know matters. But how you use your relationships matters more.
If networking feels awkward or uncomfortable, it’s usually because there’s no strategy behind it.
The Good News
That’s exactly what I help with.
In two weeks, on February 8, I’ll be hosting a small, focused session for high-performers on how to network with intention—so you can build genuine relationships and position yourself for opportunities without being salesy or inauthentic.
In this session, you’ll learn how to:
Show up confidently
Start meaningful conversations
Follow up without feeling weird
Turn connections into real career momentum
Not just to land a job—but to build a career you actually enjoy.
If you’re ready for your network to finally work for you, this class is for you.
With intention,
Oyin Bayode
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Intentional Moves Newsletter — Insights to inspire your next intentional move
