Networking is the core pillar of any professional environment. From finding internships to landing a job never posted on job boards, networking is the key to opening doors you never knew existed. Many people know the benefits of networking, yet not many know how to network properly. Here are a few tips to help sharpen your networking skills and build long lasting professional relationships:
- Be prepared. Whether you’re meeting someone online via a call or in person, it is in your best interest to learn as much about that person as possible before the appointed time. This way, you have questions prepared, make personal connections, and keep the conversation going. In most cases, especially when attempting to network with those in higher positions, it is common courtesy to know a bit about the person’s history and what you want to learn from them so you do not waste anyone’s time. A good resource to have to do this is a LinkedIn account. By having a LinkedIn Account, you can view the person’s career path, specialties, and what they’re passionate about. This will be essential when brainstorming questions and possible starter topics.
- Know what to share. Similar to the first tip, you should always have a detailed elevator pitch ready to go. Make sure the pitch includes your full name, occupation, interests, and what you want to learn from this conversation and overall connection. If you are networking as a student, it is important to highlight what you are interested in or what industry you want to go into, especially if those subjects align with what the other person specializes in. Utilize the STAR method to draft your pitch in five steps.The STAR method includes situation, task, action, and result. You should always have one-to-two experiences ready to pitch.
- Make a good first impression. One of the best ways to make a good first impression is by dressing appropriately. This does not mean you have to pull out a suit and tie, but it does mean you should look put together. Think business casual. Since your appearance is the first thing others see, having a put together outfit will make you appear more reliable and approachable. An article posted by Virginia Tech has some good examples of what you should be wearing when attending networking events or just networking in general.
- Be patient. When reaching out to new potential connections either on LinkedIn or through email, do not expect an immediate response. It is important to consider the other person’s busy schedule and the fact that they are likely balancing multiple priorities. Responding to a cold call message is unlikely to be at the top of their to do list. This does not mean you have to give up on building that relationship, as such a connection often yields stronger benefits in the weeks or months to come. As Robert McKeon Aloe said in an article posted on Medium, “Networking is time and patience. The result may take longer but will lead to deeper relationships and better opportunities”
Keep in touch. When forming a valuable relationship, it is vital that you keep in touch with the other person. A valuable relationship will never form from one conversation. Such a relationship requires time and care to grow. Keeping in touch with your connection is as simple as wishing them happy birthday on their socials, sending a check in message, or leaving a comment on their social media post. As long as you do not spam them, you should try to stay in contact.
Now that you understand the fundamentals of effective networking, it is time to put them into action. Building meaningful connections is not something that happens overnight. It is a skill developed through consistency, intention, and genuine curiosity about others. Every conversation you start and every relationship you nurture has the potential to shape your future in unexpected ways. Walk into your next networking opportunity with confidence, be authentic in your approach, and remember, the connections you build today often become the opportunities that define your tomorrow.
