From Conversations to Careers: Networking with Ticket to Work

Did you know that 70% of jobs are found through networking? (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Whether you’re job searching or already employed, building and maintaining connections can open new doors. But what does networking really mean? It’s simply the exchange of information and support between people.

It’s as easy as:

• A conversation with a friend.
• Talking with someone about your employment goals.
• Sharing information about a great book you read, or emailing an article to someone who you think will like it.
• Talking to others, formally or informally, about things that matter to you.

At its core, networking is about building and maintaining meaningful relationships. These connections can help you discover new job opportunities or advance to a higher-paying position.

3 Reasons Networking is Important

Why is networking so important when it comes to finding and keeping a job? Building connections can give you access to opportunities you may not find elsewhere and help you stand out to employers. Here are three key reasons to make networking part of your career plan:

1. It’s all who you know. When a position opens, employers and hiring managers often think of people they already know and trust before posting the job publicly. By building and maintaining professional relationships, you increase the chances that your name comes to mind when new opportunities arise.
2. It shows commitment to your career. Having a strong network shows that you’re engaged and committed to your field. It allows you to learn more from others, share resources, and contribute to your organization’s success. Staying connected can also put you in a great position when new opportunities or promotions become available.
3. Networking helps you learn and grow. Connecting with others in your field gives you insight into industry trends, skill requirements, and career paths. These conversations can help you stay informed, build confidence, and discover new directions for your professional growth.

3 Tips for Networking

Networking can happen anywhere: online, in your community, or through people you already know. Here are three simple ways to start building connections that can help you move toward your career goals.

1. Consider your personal networks. We often don’t consider people in our daily lives as part of our network, but they can be helpful in your job search. Think about your relatives, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and even acquaintances. Reach out to let them know you’re looking for a job and the type of work you’re seeking. While they may not be able to connect you with a potential employer right away, being aware of your search will help them consider you when they hear of new opportunities.
2. Connect with leaders on social media. Being active and engaged on social media platforms like LinkedIn and X could open the door for you to meet hiring managers and recruiters. Each connection brings you one step closer to learning about positions or reaching decision makers.
3. Attend in-person gatherings, conferences, and events. Face-to-face contact is an important way to connect with people. Today, there are many opportunities to meet people, get to know others in your field, exchange information, and talk about professional goals. A couple of examples are finding a group or hobby club that relates to your field of work or finding and joining a local chapter of a professional organization.

Practical Support from a Ticket to Work Employment Team

Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. The Ticket Program is free and voluntary. As a participant, you will have access to an employment team ready to support you on your path to financial independence.

Your Ticket to Work service provider can help you build your network in several ways:

• Career counseling and coaching: They can teach effective networking strategies, like how to introduce yourself, start conversations, and follow up with contacts.
• Connecting to employers: Many service providers have relationships with local businesses and organizations, helping participants meet potential employers directly.
• Workshops and events: They may host or recommend job fairs, networking events, or professional groups where participants can build connections.
• Resume and LinkedIn support: Ticket Program service providers can help participants create professional materials and online profiles that make networking easier and more effective.
• Confidence building: Through guidance and practice, service providers help people feel more comfortable reaching out and sharing their skills and goals.

Learn More

Learn more about how Ticket to Work can help you reach your goals! Call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; ET; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. You may also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov