Best Practices for Networking

Photo by Jack Sparrow : https://www.pexels.com/photo/couple-buying-apples-4198226/

Networking can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re just starting out or changing careers, building genuine connections is one of the most valuable skills you can develop. Here’s how to make networking more approachable, effective, and even enjoyable.

Consider the value of networking

When starting or changing careers, you’ll often hear about the importance of networking. Networking can be a valuable tool for opening opportunities, creating relationships with peers, and helping you keep up with changes in the industry. For some, it feels natural; for others, it’s anxiety-provoking.

Wherever you are, here are some tips based on what works for me when networking and when others connect with me.

Reframe how you think about networking

If networking feels overwhelming, try reframing it simply as meeting people. This reduces the transactional feel and pressure. When meeting someone, start with low-barrier conversation, share a bit about yourself, or ask surface-level questions. Once you gauge their response, you can explore broader or deeper topics.

Do your homework

Know what you want from networking and what you can offer. Look at the profiles of the people you’re trying to connect with to get an idea of who they are and identify the commonalities you share.

This isn’t just about what you hope to gain but also how you can contribute. You probably have more to offer than you think, even if it is simply sharing relevant news or discussing something the other person mentioned in a post or social setting.

Find your people

Target active individuals, especially on LinkedIn. That means those who have posted or engaged within the past month. Use search tools and focus on people who share your interests, including those in your local area.

Personalize your introduction

On social media, especially LinkedIn, personalize your introductions. You’re more likely to build meaningful relationships with those who share your interests. Approach it like building a social network, with a clear idea of your interests beforehand. Tailor your message to who the person is. If you are connecting with someone outside your expertise, speak to them on the same terms and avoid overloading them with industry-specific jargon.

Be conscientious

 Social media can be draining and affect mental health. Give people time to respond and build rapport before asking for demanding help or feedback. Pick up on people’s cues. If responses get shorter and less detailed, they’re likely disengaging.

That also means if you open an introduction with a request that requires work or questions difficult to answer succinctly, you’re likely to tire the person before they even learn who you are. This includes extended interview questions or unprompted résumé review requests.

Protect your energy

Networking can be tiring, especially when you’re job hunting, switching careers, or already stretched thin. If it starts to feel like a chore or source of pressure, pause. You don’t need to be available constantly. Taking breaks, limiting how many messages you send per week, or stepping back for a bit are all valid. Protecting your energy helps you approach networking with more clarity and intention when you’re ready.

Be yourself, be clear

If you’re writing in a non-native language, clarity matters more than perfection. Most people understand this and won’t judge informal messages harshly. You probably don’t edit your text messages, so there’s no need to overthink it. If you use AI, limit it to grammar or tone checks, not generating full responses.

Consider the person’s role and knowledge

 If you get to a point where you start asking for help, consider whether the person has the experience to answer your question. If you’re connecting with someone who works in health blogging, they may not be able to answer questions about regulatory writing. Read profiles carefully and pay attention to skills and “about” sections before making requests of someone’s time and energy.

Try it on yourself

 Whatever approach you plan to take when talking to others, try it on yourself first. Ask the same questions. Make the same topic openings and consider how you would respond. This can be a helpful exercise if you’re feeling nervous and want to build confidence.

A quick example to keep in mind

Networking doesn’t have to be complicated. Imagine you’re at the grocery store buying apples to make a pie for a picnic. You left your phone in the car but want to check if it’s going to rain.

You spot someone else buying apples and ask, “Do you know if it’s going to rain today?” They look at you funny and say, “I don’t know,” then go back to their apples. Awkward, right?

Now imagine you ask them for a recipe for apple pie out of nowhere. The person might back away or even run off screaming. That’s way too much, way too soon.

But if you simply comment, “Those apples look great. Pink Ladies are my favorite,” the person might start talking about their favorite apples. Before you know it, you’re exchanging phone numbers, pie recipes, and detailed weather reports from the past month. Of course, then you remember you need to go back to the car to get your phone.

The point is the same for networking: start with something simple and shared, let the conversation flow naturally, and build from there.

Take-home

Remind yourself again that it’s about meeting people. Connections take time and effort to build. By approaching networking with a clear mindset and genuine intent, you can build relationships that support your career and personal growth. Start small, be genuine, and watch your network grow over time.