Networking your way to your dream job
How to Use Your Network to Land a Sustainability Role (When Job Portals Aren’t Working)
In the rapidly evolving sustainability job market, traditional job portals can sometimes fall short. Roles are often filled through referrals, recommendations, or quiet recruitment—especially in niche areas like ESG, climate innovation, and sustainable finance. If your applications are going nowhere, it might be time to unlock the power of your professional network. We have dozen of calls a week to often suggest the below tips. NETWORK NETWORK NETWORK!
Here’s how to do it—ethically, strategically, and confidently.
Why Networking Matters More in Sustainability Recruitment
Sustainability is a fast-evolving field. Many roles are created in real-time to meet emerging needs.
Leaders hire for values alignment. That’s often best judged through conversations, not just CVs.
Many sustainability jobs aren’t advertised. They're filled through referrals, word of mouth, or mission-driven communities.
According to the LinkedIn Global Green Skills Report 2023, the number of job postings requiring “green skills” has surged by approximately 23% in the past year, indicating a pivotal shift towards sustainability across various sectors.(Institute of Sustainability Studies)
7 Smart Ways to Use Your Network
1. Let People Know You’re Looking—With Clarity
Don’t just say “I’m looking for a role in sustainability.” Be specific:
“I’m seeking a role in nature-based solutions or ESG reporting.”
“I’m transitioning into impact investing with a focus on biodiversity.”
People can only help if they understand your niche and goal.
Tip: Craft a short, clear “elevator pitch” you can share on LinkedIn or in messages.
2. Rekindle Old Contacts
Former colleagues, mentors, university peers, even people from past volunteer work—reach out with sincerity:
“I’ve always valued your perspective and wondered if you’re seeing any sustainability-focused roles or projects come up?”
“I’m moving into climate risk and would love your insight on who’s doing good work in this space.”
Don’t ask for a job. Ask for insight, introductions, or advice.
3. Use LinkedIn Like a Human, Not a Robot
Comment on posts from sustainability leaders and organizations.
Congratulate people on new roles or projects—and ask how they found the opportunity.
Share your learning journey or industry insights (authenticity beats perfection).
DM example:
“Hi [Name], I really enjoyed your post on circular economy hiring trends. I’m moving into this area and would welcome a quick chat or any advice you’re willing to share.”
For more tips on leveraging LinkedIn for sustainability jobs, check out this guide.(Institute of Sustainability Studies)
4. Join Sustainability Communities
These often surface hidden job leads and introduce you to collaborators:(Recruiters LineUp)
Many of these share non-public roles, especially at early-stage organizations.
5. Volunteer or Freelance Strategically
If you’re stuck in limbo, offer your skills for short-term projects:
Join an open-source climate tool initiative.
Support a small NGO with ESG reporting.
Help a startup build their first sustainability strategy.
This grows your network, credibility, and experience—all at once.
6. Ask for Introductions—Nicely
If someone posts a job or works at your target company:
“Hi [Name], I saw you work with [Organization]. I’m really aligned with your mission and wondered if you’d be open to making an intro to the hiring team or sharing any tips?”
Keep it polite, focused, and respectful of their time. Most people want to help—they just need an easy ask.
7. Follow Up (Without Being Pushy)
Life is busy. People forget. A gentle nudge after 1–2 weeks is not only okay—it’s often appreciated.
Example:
“Hi again [Name], just wanted to follow up in case my message got buried. I’m still actively looking in [area] and would be grateful for any connections you’d recommend.”
Final Thoughts: Networking Is a Long Game
Even if you don’t land a job immediately, you’re building relationships that:
Unlock future roles.
Lead to collaborations.
Keep you visible in a fast-moving sector.
And most importantly—it keeps you connected to the why behind the work.
For further reading on networking strategies in sustainability:
Hope this helps! I think a key aspect to remember is that everyone (other than ATS) are humans and generally nicer than you might think! :)