7 Meaningful Ways to Help Someone Find a Job

As of early 2025, 6.8 million people in the U.S. are unemployed, with a 4.0% unemployment rate (BLS.gov). In technology sector, unemployment increased to 2.9%, up from 2.0% at the end of 2024 (HR Dive). That means many of us have friends, former colleagues, or acquaintances reaching out for help with their job search.

We’re all busy, and while accepting a quick chat is common, we may not always know how to offer meaningful assistance. Simply forwarding a résumé or making a generic introduction to a hiring manager isn’t enough. The hiring managers are often inundated with such requests. When we ask our friends, “What can I do to help?”— often, the response is vague: “Let me know if you hear anything.”

If you're unsure how to help, here are seven impactful ways to support someone in your network during their job search.

1. Introduce Them to the Right People—Beyond Just Hiring Managers

Networking is often the key to landing a job, but as I mentioned, direct intro to a hiring manager isn’t always the best or only option. Instead, consider connecting them with:

? Industry peers who can share insights and referrals.

? Recruiters who specialize in their field.

? "Super-connectors"—people in your network who thrive on making introductions.

?? Innovative Twist: If you can’t think of anyone, help them identify 2nd-degree connections on LinkedIn or invite them to a small networking dinner or virtual meetup with industry professionals.

2. Help Them Craft a Stronger Narrative

A clear, compelling pitch makes all the difference. Ask them:

? What’s your ideal role?

? What industries or companies are you targeting?

? What’s your unique value?

?? Innovative Twist: Instead of just reviewing their résumé, turn their story into a LinkedIn post. Write about their skills and ideal job as if you were recruiting for them, encouraging your network to share and tag hiring managers.

3. Share Market Insights They Might Not Know

? Which companies are actively hiring?

? What trends are shaping their industry?

? Are there alternative roles they should consider?

?? Innovative Twist: If they’re unsure where to look, leverage AI-powered job search tools to identify companies hiring for their skillset—or even suggest freelance gigs to keep momentum while they search for full-time work.

4. Offer to Be an Advocate or Reference

? Write a LinkedIn recommendation now—not just when they get hired.

? Endorse their key skills.

? Mention them internally if relevant roles open up at your company.

?? Innovative Twist: Surprise them with a public endorsement on LinkedIn highlighting a specific skill or achievement—unexpected praise can boost their credibility at just the right moment.

5. Help Them Gain Visibility Through Thought Leadership

Hiring managers aren’t just looking at résumés; they’re paying attention to industry conversations.

? Suggest they write short LinkedIn posts sharing insights in their field.

? Encourage them to comment on posts by industry leaders to build visibility.

? Nominate them for a podcast interview or a speaking spot at an industry event.

?? Innovative Twist: Reach out to a podcast host or panel organizer and suggest them as a guest. A single public appearance can make them stand out far beyond a job application.

6. Provide Encouragement—But With Structure

Job searching can be mentally exhausting and isolating. Instead of generic encouragement, offer structured support:

? Set up a monthly check-in to keep them accountable.

? Offer to do a mock interview with them.

? Challenge them to connect with one new person per day for a month.

?? Innovative Twist: Turn their job search into a game—create small incentives (like buying them coffee if they reach a networking goal) to keep them motivated.

7. If You Can’t Help Directly, Help Them Expand Their Network

If you’re not in a position to make a direct introduction, you can still help by:

? Encouraging them to attend industry events or join professional groups.

? Posting on LinkedIn (without sharing personal details) to see if anyone in your network knows of opportunities.

? Helping them identify potential connectors in their alumni network or past workplaces.

?? Innovative Twist: If you don’t know a relevant connector, ask ChatGPT to analyze their LinkedIn and suggest mutual connections you may have overlooked.

Final Thought

Often, the most valuable support for a job seeker comes from offering insights, connections, and visibility in creative ways.

Since everyone is busy, pick 1-2 things from this list that you can do and commit to them. Even a small action—whether it’s an introduction, a recommendation, or simply a structured check-in—can make a big difference.

Next time someone reaches out, instead of saying, “I will let you know if I hear anything,” try one of these strategies. And if you're currently job hunting, consider sharing these strategies with your network to see who might be willing to assist.

What’s the most creative way you’ve helped someone find a job? Share your ideas in the comments!