Networking is simply building relationships with people who can learn from you, help you, or work with you, and doing the same for them. Done well, it doesn’t feel like selling. It feels like being curious and useful.
This guide covers the basics: who to talk to, what to say, how to follow up, and how to keep relationships going.
The 7 steps of networking
1. Know what you want
Be clear about your goal for the next few months. Is it a new job, clients, investors, mentors or knowledge? A clear goal tells you who to meet and what to ask.
2. Start with people you already know
Your first network is the one you have: former colleagues, classmates, friends, clients and suppliers. Reconnecting is easier than cold outreach and often leads to introductions.
3. Find the right places
- Events: industry meetups, conferences and trade shows. Here’s how to get the most out of networking events and the common traps to avoid.
- Online: LinkedIn, Slack and Discord communities, and industry forums. Make sure your profile is ready first. Our LinkedIn headline examples can help.
- Remote work: if you work from home, use our blueprint for networking in a remote working environment.
4. Prepare a short introduction
Have a one or two sentence answer to “What do you do?” Focus on who you help and how, not just your job title. For example: “I run paid social for food and drink brands, mostly helping them launch new products.”
5. Ask good questions and listen
Most people like talking about their work. Ask open questions:
- “What are you working on at the moment?”
- “How did you get into this field?”
- “What’s the biggest challenge in your role right now?”
Listen for ways you could help: an introduction, an article, a tool you’ve used.
6. Offer value first
The fastest way to build a relationship is to help. Share a useful contact, resource or idea without expecting anything back. People remember who helped them.
7. Follow up and stay in touch
Send a short message within 48 hours: mention where you met, something you talked about, and any next step. Then stay in touch every few months with a quick update, an article or congratulations on news. Here’s more on how to follow up after a networking event.
What to say when networking
Opening at an event
“Hi, I’m [name]. What brings you here today?”
Reaching out on LinkedIn
“Hi [name], I enjoyed your post on [topic]. I work on similar challenges at [company] and would love to hear how you approached [specific thing]. Open to a quick chat sometime?”
Asking for an introduction
“I saw you’re connected to [name]. I’m exploring [goal] and think they’d be a great person to learn from. Would you be comfortable introducing us? Happy to send a short blurb you can forward.”
How to network if you’re shy or introverted
Networking doesn’t require being the loudest person in the room. Read our guide for introverts in business, and try:
- Smaller formats: one-to-one coffees, workshops or small dinners instead of big mixers.
- Arriving early, when rooms are quieter and easier to join.
- Setting a small goal, such as two good conversations, then leaving.
- Starting online, where you can prepare what you say.
- Using emotional intelligence. Notice people’s interests and energy. Our piece on using emotional intelligence to build career networks goes deeper.
Networking on a budget or across cultures
You don’t need expensive conferences. Free meetups, alumni groups and online communities work well. See networking on a budget. Working internationally? Read how to network effectively across cultures and countries.
Why networking matters
Many roles are filled through referrals, and many deals start with a warm introduction. A strong network also gives you advice, early news about opportunities and support when things go wrong. For leaders, it’s a multiplier: see 5 ways networking enhances your effectiveness as a business leader and effective networking strategies to improve sales.
FAQ
How do I network as a beginner?
Start with people you already know, set a clear goal, attend one or two relevant events or online communities, ask questions, and follow up within 48 hours.
How do you network with someone you don’t know?
Find common ground: a shared connection, event, post or interest. Send a short, specific message that explains why you’re reaching out and asks for something small, like a 15-minute chat.
How often should I network?
A little, often. One or two meaningful conversations a week, plus regular follow-ups, builds a strong network over time.
Is online networking as effective as in person?
It can be. Online networking is easier to scale and suits introverts. In-person meetings often build trust faster. A mix of both works best.
