Networking Without the Ick Factor: How to Make Genuine Connections
Networking. Just the mention of it can evoke a range of emotions. Maybe you get excited about the thought of meeting new people and exploring fresh opportunities. Or does it feel about as appealing as a trip to the dentist? No matter whether you're someone who loves networking or would rather avoid it, there’s no denying that networking plays a crucial role in building a successful career. And here’s the great news: networking doesn’t have to feel like a sales pitch, and it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Done right, networking can be about building genuine, meaningful connections with others.
If you’re stuck in your career or unsure about your next move, having a network will open doors, inspire you, and give you access to a ton of resources. So let’s dive into how to approach networking in a way that feels natural, authentic, and—dare I say it—enjoyable.
Shift Your Mindset—It’s Not About “Selling” Yourself
The idea of networking can feel intimidating and uncomfortable because we feel we need to “sell” ourselves. In reality, networking isn’t a transactional exchange; it’s about building relationships. The goal isn’t to impress others with your credentials but to connect over shared interests, values, or goals.
Try approaching networking with curiosity instead of pressure. Try being ‘interested over interesting’ .When you attend an event or join an online group, focus on learning about others. Ask questions, be genuinely interested, and listen attentively. You’ll find that networking becomes less about proving your worth and more about making meaningful connections. And others will genuinely want to connect with you again.
Tip: Instead of leading with, “I’m here to talk about my career,” start with something simple, like, “I’m curious to hear about your journey.” Everyone appreciates a good listener.
Start Small—Practice with People You Know
If diving into a big event or cold messaging someone on LinkedIn feels overwhelming, begin by networking in familiar places. Reconnect with former colleagues, classmates, or friends. Send them a quick message to see how they’re doing and update each other on your lives. This can help you get comfortable with the basics of networking without the pressure of meeting complete strangers.
Think of these small steps as “networking practice.” Even reaching out to a friend in a similar field to chat about career updates can build your confidence and expand your network. The best part? There’s zero risk of awkward silences with people you already know.
Tip: Try reaching out to one person a week with a friendly message or a suggestion to catch up over coffee. You’ll be surprised how quickly this habit grows your connections.
Think of networking as building your own community
Be Authentic—Let The Real You Shine
Never pretend to be anything other than you are. Trust me on this one - people can smell fake a mile off. You really don’t need to present a polished, “perfect” version of yourself when connecting with others and building your network. All of us our drawn to authenticity. Being genuine can set you apart in a sea of business cards and elevator pitches.
When you show up as yourself—quirks and all—you make it easier for others to connect with you. If you have a passion outside of work or a personal story that shaped your career, don’t be afraid to share it. This kind of authenticity can lead to stronger, more memorable connections.
Tip: If there’s something you’re passionate about, weave it into your networking conversations. It’s a natural way to stand out and attract people who share your values.
Add Value—Be Generous with Your Connections and Resources
You can’t approach networking as a one way street. It isn’t just about receiving; it’s also about giving. When you connect with someone, think about how you can add value for them. This could mean introducing them to someone in your network, sharing a relevant article, or offering advice on a topic you’re knowledgeable about. People remember and appreciate those who are generous with their time and resources.
Tip: Make it a goal to help at least one person each time you network. Even a small gesture can go a long way in building trust and goodwill.
Follow Up—Keep the Connection Alive
After meeting someone new, it’s easy to let the connection fade if there’s no immediate benefit. But networking is all about building a long-term relationship. Send a quick follow-up message after your initial conversation, expressing appreciation and maybe sharing something related to what you discussed. Even if they’re not someone you could use some help from right now, maintaining the connection could be valuable in the future.
A simple “It was great meeting you!” or sharing an article on a topic they mentioned is an easy way to stay connected.
Tip: Make following up part of your routine by setting aside 10 minutes each week to check in with recent connections.
Let Networking Work for You
Building your network is a key strategy in building your career. It doesn’t need to feel like an obligation or a chore. By approaching it with authenticity, curiosity, and generosity, you’ll not only build a valuable network but also create a community of people who genuinely care about you and your success. They will cheer you on and don’t we all need more of that? So, whether you’re at an industry event, scrolling through LinkedIn, or reconnecting with an old friend, remember: the best connections come from being yourself.
Networking might just be the key to unlocking the next chapter in your career. And with these strategies, you’ll be ready to connect in a way that’s meaningful, memorable, and uniquely you.