“It’s not always what you know — sometimes, it’s who you know.”
This age-old saying rings especially true in the modern job market. In Kenya today, job seekers are discovering a hard truth: job connections often matter more than qualifications.
Why Job Connections Matter in Kenya
Each year, thousands of graduates enter the job market armed with degrees and updated CVs. Yet many of them remain unemployed for months, sometimes years.
On the other hand, some land lucrative roles through a friend’s referral or family member’s tip-off. While some call it luck, others understand it’s the power of networking.
A 2023 LinkedIn global report revealed that up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking — not formal applications. While this data reflects a global trend, it mirrors reality in Kenya too.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Take Brian, a mechanical engineering graduate from Kisumu. After a year of sending applications with no success, he casually spoke to a cousin at a family event.
“She knew someone at an engineering firm. A week later, I got a Zoom interview. That’s how I got my job,” he shares.
This story is not uncommon. Many Kenyans find employment not through job boards, but through word of mouth.
Is This Fair?
While networking can unlock opportunities, it also raises questions of fairness. Many young people without strong social capital feel disadvantaged.
“I once lost a job to someone less qualified, just because he was related to the hiring manager,” says Njeri, a PR graduate from Nairobi.
This experience reflects the fine line between networking and nepotism — an important distinction to make.
Networking vs Nepotism
It’s crucial to note: nepotism is favoritism without merit. Networking, however, is about forming genuine professional relationships that lead to trust — and opportunities.
“I tell students to build their network before they need it,” says a career coach at the University of Nairobi. “Jobs come to those who stay visible.”
How to Build Job Connections in Kenya
If you’re wondering where to start, here are practical tips to build real connections that can lead to job opportunities:
- Update your LinkedIn profile and engage with posts in your field.
- Attend networking events, webinars, and career fairs.
- Let people know you’re job-hunting — don’t keep quiet about it.
- Volunteer — it’s a great way to gain visibility and referrals.
- Join alumni networks and WhatsApp job groups.
The best part? You don’t need to be wealthy or powerful to do any of this.
The Future of Job Hunting
Kenya’s job market remains competitive, and job connections in Kenya are more important than ever. While recruitment is evolving with online platforms and diversity policies, human trust still plays a central role.
People hire people they trust — and trust is built through connection.
From the Horse’s Mouth 🎙️
“Yes, send that application. Yes, fix your CV. But don’t underestimate your next coffee chat or family function. That might be your job interview in disguise.”
Final Thoughts
While qualifications matter, connections often open the door. It’s time we stopped seeing networking as manipulation — and started using it as a smart job search strategy.
So next time you hear, “It’s about who you know,” believe it — and start building your network today.
