Landing your first actuarial job—or making a career leap—can feel daunting, especially if you don’t have a personal referral to open doors for you. But here’s the good news: you don’t need an “in” to build meaningful connections and stand out in this field. In fact, some of the most successful actuaries I know got their start by being proactive, resourceful, and genuine in their networking efforts. The actuarial world is tight-knit, but it’s also welcoming to those who show initiative and curiosity. Over 70% of jobs are filled through referrals, but that doesn’t mean the other 30%—or even hidden opportunities—are out of reach for someone willing to put in the effort[7].
In this article, I’ll share five practical strategies to help you network effectively for actuarial jobs, even without a referral. These tips are drawn from my own experience, conversations with hiring managers, and insights from professionals who’ve successfully navigated this path. Whether you’re a student, a recent grad, or someone looking to pivot into actuarial work, these approaches will help you build relationships, uncover opportunities, and present yourself as a standout candidate.
Start with Professional Organizations and Events #
One of the fastest ways to immerse yourself in the actuarial community is to join professional organizations like the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS)[1]. These groups aren’t just for established professionals—they’re packed with students, early-career actuaries, and industry leaders who are often eager to help newcomers. Membership gives you access to local meetups, national conferences, webinars, and seminars where you can meet people face-to-face (or virtually).
Attending industry conferences is especially powerful. I’ll never forget my first SOA Annual Meeting—I was nervous, but I forced myself to introduce myself to speakers after their sessions and ask thoughtful questions. Many of those conversations led to follow-up emails, LinkedIn connections, and even informational interviews. These events are goldmines for meeting hiring managers, recruiters, and actuaries who might not have open roles listed but are always on the lookout for promising talent[1].
If travel or registration fees are a barrier, look for local actuarial club meetings or virtual events. Many organizations now host free or low-cost networking sessions specifically for students and early-career professionals. And don’t underestimate the value of simply showing up consistently—people remember the faces they see often, and that familiarity can turn into opportunity.
Leverage LinkedIn and Online Communities #
LinkedIn is the professional social network of choice for actuaries, and it’s a tool you should be using daily—not just to browse jobs, but to engage with the community[2][3]. Start by optimizing your profile: highlight your exam progress, projects, internships, and any relevant skills. Use a professional photo and write a summary that reflects your passion for actuarial science and your career goals.
But don’t stop there. Actively participate in actuarial groups and forums. Comment on posts, share articles, and even publish your own insights (yes, even as a student or early-career professional—your perspective is valuable). When you see someone post about a topic you’re interested in, send them a personalized message. For example, if an actuary shares a case study on predictive modeling, you might write, “Hi [Name], I really enjoyed your post on predictive modeling in health insurance. I’m currently studying for Exam SRM and would love to hear how you got started in this area. Would you be open to a quick call or coffee chat?”
I’ve found that most professionals are flattered by thoughtful outreach and are often willing to spare 15–30 minutes to share advice. These conversations can lead to mentorship, job leads, or even introductions to others in their network. Remember, it’s not about asking for a job upfront—it’s about building authentic relationships[8].
Form or Join Study Groups and Volunteer #
Studying for actuarial exams is a rite of passage, and it’s also a fantastic way to meet peers who are on the same journey. Forming or joining a study group creates a built-in network of people who understand the challenges you’re facing[1]. These groups often evolve into professional support networks, with members sharing job postings, resume tips, and interview experiences.
Beyond study groups, look for volunteer opportunities within actuarial organizations or related fields. Volunteering at a conference, writing for a student newsletter, or helping organize a local event puts you in direct contact with professionals who appreciate initiative and teamwork. I’ve seen volunteers land internships and jobs simply because they stood out as reliable and enthusiastic contributors.
One of my former classmates volunteered to help with registration at a CAS seminar. She struck up a conversation with a speaker during a break, which led to an informational interview and, eventually, a job offer at his firm. These opportunities might seem small, but they add up—and they demonstrate your commitment to the profession in a way that a resume alone cannot.
Attend Career Fairs and Follow Up Strategically #
Actuarial career fairs, whether on campus or hosted by professional organizations, are designed to connect students with employers. But simply showing up isn’t enough—you need a strategy. Before the event, research the companies attending, identify recruiters or actuaries you’d like to meet, and prepare a few thoughtful questions about their work and company culture.
When you meet someone, focus on making a genuine connection, not just collecting business cards. Ask about their career path, what they enjoy about their role, and what skills are most valued at their company. Take notes after each conversation so you can reference specific details later—this personal touch goes a long way[4].
After the event, send personalized LinkedIn connection requests with a brief note reminding them of your conversation. For example: “Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at the CAS career fair yesterday. I enjoyed learning about your work on predictive analytics at [Company]. I’d love to stay in touch as I continue my actuarial studies.” A few days later, follow up with a more detailed email, perhaps attaching your resume and expressing your interest in their company. This two-step approach—LinkedIn plus email—helps you stand out in a sea of candidates[4].
I’ve seen candidates who followed up thoughtfully land interviews even when no jobs were posted, simply because they made a memorable impression. Recruiters meet hundreds of students at these events, so a little extra effort can make all the difference.
Seek Out Mentorship and Be Proactive #
Mentorship can be a game-changer in your actuarial career, and you don’t need a formal program to find a mentor. Many organizations, including SOA and CAS, offer mentorship initiatives, but you can also reach out directly to professionals whose careers inspire you[1][5]. When you do, be specific about what you’re seeking—whether it’s advice on exam strategy, resume feedback, or insights into a particular industry sector.
A good approach is to ask for a short informational interview, emphasizing that you respect their time. For example: “Hi [Name], I’m an aspiring actuary currently preparing for Exam FM. I noticed your background in pension consulting, which is an area I’m very interested in. Would you be available for a 20-minute call to share your experience and any advice you have for someone starting out?” Most professionals are happy to help, especially if you’re clear, polite, and appreciative.
Don’t limit yourself to one mentor, either. Different people can offer different perspectives—some might help with technical skills, others with career navigation or work-life balance. And remember, mentorship is a two-way street. Share updates on your progress, express gratitude, and look for ways to give back, even if it’s just passing along a helpful article or introducing them to someone in your network.
Putting It All Together: A Sample Networking Plan #
Let’s make this concrete with a sample 30-day networking plan you can adapt to your situation:
- Week 1: Join SOA or CAS as a student member. Sign up for their newsletter and mark upcoming events on your calendar. Update your LinkedIn profile with exam progress, projects, and a professional summary.
- Week 2: Attend a local actuarial club meeting or virtual networking event. Prepare three questions to ask professionals you meet. After the event, connect with at least two people on LinkedIn with a personalized note.
- Week 3: Reach out to a professional whose career path interests you, requesting a 20-minute informational interview. Research their background and prepare specific questions. After the call, send a thank-you email and share a relevant article or resource.
- Week 4: Volunteer to help at a conference or write a short article for a student newsletter. Participate in an online actuarial forum by commenting on a recent post or asking a question.
- Ongoing: Regularly engage with your network—congratulate connections on new roles, share interesting articles, and provide updates on your own progress. Consistency builds trust and keeps you top of mind.
Final Thoughts #
Networking for actuarial jobs without a referral isn’t about luck or who you know—it’s about showing up, being curious, and adding value wherever you can. The actuarial profession rewards those who are proactive, resourceful, and genuine. By joining professional organizations, leveraging online platforms, participating in study groups and volunteer work, attending career fairs, and seeking mentorship, you’ll not only increase your chances of landing a job—you’ll also build a foundation for long-term career growth.
Remember, over 50% of actuarial jobs aren’t posted online[2]. The hidden job market is real, and your network is the key to unlocking it. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. The relationships you build today could lead to opportunities you never imagined. Your actuarial career is waiting—go out and meet it.