Written by Andrea Ciurte, Community Liaison, City of Calgary Youth Employment Centre

In an increasingly complex labour market characterized by informal recruitment channels, evolving skill demands, and persistent youth underemployment, networking emerges as a critical, developmental asset. This article examines the developmental stages of networking for youth aged 15 to 24+.

Grounded in social capital theory, labour market trends, and 2025 global data, it presents networking not merely as a career tactic but as an equity-centered strategy for enhancing employability, expanding access, and fostering lifelong professional mobility. The article includes practical strategies, validated employer insights, and policy implications to inform educators, workforce practitioners, and young professionals alike.

Introduction

The contemporary employment landscape, shaped by technological transformation and increasing competition, demands more than academic credentials. In particular, social capital—defined as the resources accessible through one’s networks—has become pivotal in navigating the "hidden job market," where up to 80% of jobs are filled through personal referrals and informal networks (Apollo Technical, 2025).

For youth, especially those lacking inherited networks or industry exposure, intentional networking serves as both a career development mechanism and a tool for social mobility.

Developmental Phases of Youth Networking

Adolescence (15–18): Foundational Exposure

Early adolescence presents a critical window for initiating career awareness and confidence-building through networking. Engagement in school-hosted employer panels, youth councils, and volunteer initiatives enables adolescents to develop professional language, interpersonal confidence, and foundational career clarity.

Key Strategies:

Attend local youth hiring fairs and community job expos.
Participate in group mentorship or shadowing initiatives.
Initiate informal conversations with adults in varied careers.

Emerging Adulthood (18–21): Strategic Exploration

At this phase, youth transition from career awareness to active career building. Post-secondary education, internships, and early work experiences provide platforms for deepening professional networks.

Employer priorities include communication, teamwork, and initiative over GPA or technical proficiency (NACE, 2025; Seramount, 2025).
Tools include LinkedIn optimization, participation in employer spotlights, and informational interviews.

Early Career Transition (22–24+): Professional Mobility

For individuals transitioning from education to the workforce, networking influences job access, internal referrals, and upward mobility. The World Economic Forum (2025) emphasizes the increasing value of relational capital in an AI-augmented workforce.

Key Actions:

Join industry associations and attend professional conferences.
Maintain active digital presence and engage with mentors.
Serve in peer leadership or volunteer advisory roles.

Attitude Builds Altitude: The Mindset of Effective Networking

The adage “Attitude determines altitude” encapsulates a key insight from 2025 employer reports: mindset matters as much as skills. Research from Deloitte and BSI (2025) shows that youth who exhibit curiosity, humility, and gratitude are more likely to build lasting professional connections and be retained in the workplace.

Critical Attitudes:

Curiosity: Demonstrate eagerness to learn.
Professionalism: Respectful communication and punctuality.
Resilience: Engage despite rejection or setbacks.
Gratitude: Follow-up with thank-you notes and reflective insights.

“I always tell youth that networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about showing up as someone others want to work with. A positive, genuine attitude opens more doors than a flawless resume. People remember those who are respectful, interested, and authentic, and that energy often leads to new opportunities.” — Andrea Ciurte, Community Liaison

Practical Networking Strategies for Youth

*Age Groups*	*Where to Network*	*Messaging Sample*
15–18	School panels, youth programs, volunteering	"Hi, I'm interested in learning about your work. What advice would you give to someone just starting out?"
18–21	LinkedIn, post-secondary events, mentorship circles	"Would you be open to a brief meeting to share your career insights? I'm exploring opportunities in [industry]."
22–24+	Industry associations, alumni events, conferences	"It was a pleasure meeting you at [event]. I appreciated your perspective on [topic] and hope to stay connected."

Additional tips:

Always personalize outreach.
Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions.
Maintain a follow-up routine.
Share value back (resources, articles, gratitude).

What Employers Want in 2025

Employers in 2025 prioritize emotional intelligence, initiative, and adaptability. According to NACE and WEF data:

87% of employers value communication and teamwork above academic performance.
74% prefer candidates who show initiative and professional maturity.
Weak ties (acquaintances, alumni, etc.) remain more effective for referrals than close contacts (Harvard-Stanford-LinkedIn Study, 2024).

Networking provides the behavioral context to demonstrate these traits.

“A student may not have years of experience, but if they approach an employer with the right attitude—curious, prepared, professional—they become memorable. That’s what builds trust, and ultimately, opportunity.” — Youth Employment Centre Collaborative Employer

Policy and Institutional Implications

Schools should embed networking skill development into career education.
Municipalities can expand programs like Calgary's Youth Employment Centre that facilitate direct youth-employer engagement.
Employers should design early outreach pipelines and support mentoring initiatives.

Conclusion: Networking as a Strategic Life Skill

Networking is not merely a professional convenience—it's a strategic, developmental tool that shapes access, confidence, and long-term potential. For youth aged 15–24, these connections can make the difference between landing a job or being overlooked.

“Your network is your net worth—and it’s never too early to start building it.” Porter Gale, Your Network Is Your Net Worth (2013).

Are you a youth ages 15-24 who would like to expand your network and build your networking skills?

With a team of experts, and hundreds of connections to local employers, we can help youth ages 15-24 leverage new relationships and learn to tap into the hidden job market!

Stay up to date on ongoing Youth Employment Centre events and visit us to meet one on one with an employment counsellor.

Visit our YEC events page and follow us on social media.

References

Employment Counsellor Corner

Monday, August 18, 2025

Strategic Networking for Youth Ages 15–24: Building Social Capital for Career Resilience