The Importance of Networking
Tips to Making Networking Work for YOU
Yes, even in 2025, networking is still alive and well! And it’s not just for job seekers either. Networking is a powerful tool that can expand your opportunities, build meaningful connections, and help lead you to new growth personally and professionally.
Whether you’re looking to collaborate, gain fresh industry insights, increase your visibility and exposure, or simply meet and connect with like-minded individuals, networking is still one of the most effective ways to open doors and build relationships.
“Networking is the number one unwritten rule of success.”
- Sallie Krawcheck
But, what if the thought of networking makes you cringe? Or perhaps every time you go to a networking “event”, you find yourself in repetitive conversations or talking to the same people over and over again?
If so, it might be time to refresh your approach and perspective on it!
In this blog, we’ll explore the keys to making your networking more effective, enjoyable, and productive, both in-person and online.
Breaking Out of Old Networking Patterns
Especially for those who feel anxious about networking, it can be easy to fall into a routine and patterns that aren’t actually serving to help you network better.
You attend the same events over and over, meeting the same people, having the same conversations
Every time you network, you find yourself “stuck” or cornered by one individual the entire time and don’t meet the people you’re looking to connect with
You don’t exactly know what to say or how to introduce yourself, so you walk away discouraged that you learned a lot about someone else without having said a peep about YOU!
If you find yourself in any of those conundrums, it’s time for a fresh approach!
One place to start is to prepare for a networking event with some questions that are more interesting than the day-to-day small talk and pique curiosity more than the standard, “So, what do you do?”
Open-ended questions are a great place to begin, but here are some others to spark ideas:
What are you working on right now?
What brings you here and who are you hoping to connect with?
Who else do you know here that I should meet?
Be intentional about asking questions that open up a conversation and dialogue, sharing what you each need and are looking for in attending the event. If a conversation isn’t adding value, find an opportunity to gracefully exit and move on to a new face.
Don’t just stick to the tried-and-true (or tried-and-not-true!). Explore new networking opportunities and events being hosted by local business groups, professional associations, and seek out industry-specific meetups. You can also find online communities ie. Mighty Networks, LinkedIn, Facebook groups, etc. where your peers are actively engaging. Think outside of the box and don’t be afraid to try something new!
Whatever you choose to engage in, attend networking events with a clear purpose, set an intention before heading in, and know who you’d like to connect with and why.
Since it’s 2025 and all…
You probably will do some of your networking on Zoom. Virtual networking has become a key part of professional growth in the last decade. Networking online can offer some unique challenges (and perks), so here are some tips to make the most of online events:
Find the right groups for you. Join relevant communities where people are engaged and actively participating.
Pay attention to who’s in the room. Take note of attendees, listen actively, and follow up with people you’d like to connect with for 1:1 conversations after the fact.
Prepare your introduction. Especially when online, getting their attention and being concise is of the essence. Have a clear and confident answer to, “Tell me about yourself” and introduce yourself in a way that’s memorable and relevant to the audience.
Follow-Up is Key Whether virtual or in-person, following up is the key to networking. Meeting someone is a great first step, but it’s what you do afterward that makes the real difference.
Be intentional about your follow-up to turn connections into meaningful relationships.
Reach out for short 1:1 conversations
Send thank-you notes, emails, or small gestures of appreciation.
Keep in touch! Networking isn’t just a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process and you’re building a relationship.
Networking Holds Possibility Far Beyond Professional Growth
You never know who you will meet and how they’ll change your life. Networking is about so much more than simply career growth. It’s about building meaningful connections and relationships, and it so often leads to unexpected opportunities.
By stepping out of your usual patterns, being proactive in both virtual and in-person settings, and following up with authenticity, you’ll create a network that truly supports you and can propel you into your next chapter.
Small consistent efforts lead to big opportunities. What’s your next networking move?
Need more guidance or 1:1 support? Want to book time to network with ME?
I’d love to hear from you! I understand the professional journey can be complicated and overwhelming and I’m here to help! Together, we’ll build the confidence and skill needed to find the path forward for you!
