Why relationship-building is the new core skill in the AI age

[WORLD] In a world where AI can scan résumés in seconds and economic headwinds make hiring more selective, simply “liking” a few posts on LinkedIn won’t cut it. The era of passive networking is over. For professionals eyeing their next opportunity—or just hoping to future-proof their careers—relationship-building has become as essential as technical skills. As employers gain leverage and digital tools accelerate the hiring process, those who invest in meaningful connections will be the ones who stand out, get referred, and land the best roles in a tightening market.

The New Job Market: Why Networking Is Now Mission-Critical

The job market in 2025 is defined by rapid technological change and a cooling hiring environment. AI and automation have reduced demand for routine roles, while economic factors such as high interest rates and global uncertainty make employers more cautious about adding headcount. As a result, the process of landing a new job has become more competitive and less forgiving of passive approaches.

Market data underscores this shift. Hiring has slowed across sectors, with job postings falling from post-pandemic highs and companies taking longer to fill vacancies. At the same time, AI-driven recruitment tools are now the norm, filtering candidates by skills and keywords before a human ever reviews an application. This means that even highly qualified applicants can get lost in the digital shuffle unless they have someone on the inside advocating for them.

In this environment, networking is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s a core strategy. Studies show that up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking, and 70% of people found their current role through connections rather than public postings. As one career coach put it, “It’s hard to fall in love with an applicant that is nothing more than just a Word document that you may not even look at”. The takeaway: being seen, heard, and remembered by real people is now the decisive edge.

Beyond the Like Button: The Favor Economy and Authentic Connection

Despite the proliferation of digital platforms, true networking is about more than accumulating contacts or engaging in surface-level interactions. The most valuable opportunities often come not from close friends, but from acquaintances and the extended networks they unlock—a phenomenon sometimes called the “favor economy”. In this system, professionals help each other not out of obligation, but because of the indirect trust and goodwill built through shared connections.

However, many professionals fall into the trap of mistaking online activity for real relationship-building. Liking posts or sending generic connection requests on LinkedIn may create the illusion of engagement, but it rarely leads to meaningful support when it matters most. Instead, experts recommend more bespoke approaches: sending thoughtful messages, sharing relevant articles, or simply checking in without an agenda. The gold standard remains in-person or live virtual interactions, where trust and rapport can be established more deeply.

This is especially crucial as AI makes hiring more impersonal. When algorithms screen applicants, a personal referral or a recommendation from someone inside the organization can be the difference between landing an interview or being filtered out. In fact, 70% of candidates in outplacement programs land their next role through their network, often via second- or third-degree connections.

Networking as a Strategic Asset: Skills, Visibility, and Long-Term Value

The shift toward skills-based hiring and internal mobility further amplifies the importance of networking. Employers are increasingly prioritizing proven abilities and cultural fit over formal credentials, and many roles are filled internally before ever being advertised. For employees, this means that cultivating relationships across departments and with decision-makers can reveal hidden opportunities and provide valuable insights into organizational needs.

Externally, a strong network offers access to unadvertised jobs, career advice, and timely information about industry trends. It also acts as a support system, providing mentorship and advocacy during transitions or periods of uncertainty. In a world where 7 out of 10 jobs aren’t publicly posted, being a recognized and trusted member of professional circles is a powerful form of career insurance.

To maximize these benefits, networking must be approached strategically. This means setting clear goals, being authentic, and offering value to others—not just seeking favors. It also means embracing both digital and in-person channels, from LinkedIn and industry forums to conferences and informal meet-ups. Consistency is key; regular, genuine engagement builds credibility and keeps you top-of-mind when opportunities arise.

What We Think

In the AI-powered, economically uncertain job market of 2025, networking is not just a soft skill—it’s a survival skill. The professionals who thrive will be those who treat relationship-building as a daily discipline, not an afterthought reserved for moments of crisis. As hiring becomes more selective and automated, human connections are the ultimate differentiator. The best time to plant your networking “oak tree” was years ago; the second best time is today. Invest in your relationships, and you’ll be investing in your future.