Students are told to network, polish their resumes, and apply early. But here’s what most aren’t told: in today’s hiring landscape, it’s not just about who you know. It’s about who knows you inside the company.

That’s the power of backchanneling.

Backchanneling means building relationships with people inside your target companies before you ever hit “submit” on an application. When done right, it turns you from a stranger in a stack of resumes into a known name with trusted advocates.

Why Backchanneling Works

The job market is crowded. Some entry-level roles receive hundreds of applications within the first 48 hours. Even if you're qualified, your resume might never make it past the first filter.

But here’s what changes everything: when a hiring manager hears your name from someone they trust—before your application arrives—they pay attention.

They don’t need to dig through a pile of resumes. They already know who to look for.

Backchanneling helps you get on the radar of the people who actually make decisions. It opens doors that aren't visible from job boards and gives you a head start most applicants never see.

Companies Hire from the Inside Out

Most hiring doesn’t start with a job post. It starts with a conversation.

A team lead realizes they need help. A manager starts asking their colleagues if they know anyone. The recruiter makes a list of people they’ve talked to recently. That’s all before the role is even public.

Backchanneling lets you tap into this process. When you’ve built relationships inside the company, you’re already in the conversation. You're not waiting for an opportunity. You’re part of how it’s shaped.

How to Build an Internal Network Without Being “Salesy”

Backchanneling isn’t about schmoozing or asking for favors. It’s about being strategic, curious, and authentic.

Start by identifying your target companies. Focus on places where your interests, values, and strengths align with their mission and work. Then follow these steps:

1. Find people one or two levels above your goal role. Use LinkedIn to find analysts, associates, or team leads—not just executives. These are the people who can give you an honest look at the day-to-day and mention your name when hiring discussions start.
2. Send a personalized message. Keep it short and clear. Mention a project, product, or value that resonated with you. Ask for 15 minutes to hear more about their role and what they enjoy most about the company.
3. Show up prepared. Do your research. Know what the company does, who they serve, and what their culture looks like. Ask thoughtful questions that show real interest.
4. Keep the relationship warm. Follow up with a thank-you note. Stay in touch periodically by commenting on their posts or sharing relevant content. Building familiarity over time is what makes you memorable.

These steps build trust. And trust is what turns casual chats into referrals, endorsements, and internal introductions.

What Happens Behind the Scenes

When you apply cold, your resume goes into an applicant tracking system. When you backchannel, your name might show up in a Slack message, an internal email, or a tap on the recruiter’s shoulder.

A quick message like “Hey, I talked to this student last week. Super sharp. You should keep an eye out for their resume” can completely change how you're viewed.

It doesn’t guarantee the job, but it guarantees attention. And that alone puts you ahead of the pack.

Backchanneling Creates Optionality

Sometimes, backchanneling leads to something even better than the original job you were considering. A new role opens up. A different team is hiring. A hiring manager decides to interview you simply because they liked your energy and initiative.

It’s not just about finding a job. It’s about unlocking paths you didn’t know existed.

How PrepU Helps You Build Backchannel Power

This is where PrepU’s process becomes a game changer. We don’t just help you optimize your LinkedIn or polish your resume. We help you connect directly with decision-makers inside your dream companies.

We identify the right contacts, craft strategic outreach messages, and coach you through every conversation. Then we help keep those connections warm over time—so that when the right opportunity appears, you’re not starting from scratch.

You’re already known.

You Can’t Fake Relationships. But You Can Build Them.

Backchanneling isn’t a shortcut. It’s a smarter path. It takes effort, planning, and consistency—but it gives you something no resume ever could: credibility, trust, and internal support.

When you have people on the inside who know your name and believe in your potential, you’re no longer just applying for jobs. You’re being invited to conversations.

And that changes everything.