When it comes to finding meaningful, impactful work, networks matter. A lot. But, like opportunity, they are not distributed equally and are built over time. LinkedIn has done extensive research around networks; here's what they found - the main factors that contribute to a person's ability to get hired:
Where you grow up. LinkedIn users who grow up in areas with a median income above $100k are 3x more like to have a stronger network than other users.
Where you go to school. Users who attend top schools are 2x more likely to have stronger networks.
Where you work. Users who have work experience at a top company are nearly 2x more likely to have stronger networks.
Who you know. Referrals are 9x more likely to get hired.
The reality is that where you grow up, where you go to school, and where you work can give you a 12x advantage in gaining access to opportunity. That delta in opportunity is called the network gap, and we can help close it.
