When it comes to building a successful career, talent and hard work are key—but there’s more to the equation. Networking, the art of building and nurturing professional relationships, plays a huge role in career growth. It’s often said, “It’s not just what you know, but who you know.” This doesn’t mean you need a huge circle of influential friends; it simply means that making meaningful connections can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Whether you’re trying to land your dream job, start a business, or grow in your current field, networking is a skill you can’t afford to overlook. If the idea of networking makes you nervous or you’re unsure where to begin, don’t worry—we’re breaking it down into simple and actionable steps.

Why Networking Matters

Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn. It’s about building genuine relationships that can help both you and the people you connect with. Here’s why networking is so important for career growth:

1. Gain Access to Opportunities

Many job openings and career opportunities are never posted publicly. By networking, you tap into the “hidden job market.” When someone in your network knows about a job that fits your skills, they might recommend you or give you a heads-up about applying.

2. Learn From Others

Your network is a goldmine of knowledge. Connecting with people who are experienced in your field or have careers you admire provides you with insights, advice, and even warnings about what to avoid.

3. Build a Support System

Navigating your career can sometimes feel overwhelming. Having a solid network gives you access to a support system of people who can encourage you, provide feedback, and share their experiences.

4. Establish Your Reputation

When you network effectively, you’re showcasing your professionalism, skills, and reliability. Over time, your name becomes associated with positive qualities, which can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.

5. Open Doors to Career Growth

Networking isn’t just about landing a new job. It can lead to mentorship, partnerships, side projects, or even a chance to present your ideas to the right audience.

Practical Strategies for Building Connections

Some people are naturals at networking, while others feel a little awkward just thinking about it. The good news? Networking is a skill you can develop with practice. Here are some effective strategies to help you build connections in a thoughtful and impactful way.

1. Start With People You Know

Your network is probably bigger than you think. Start with people you already know, like classmates, professors, coworkers, or neighbors. You don’t need to reach out to strangers right away. A quick conversation or a message to check in can lay the foundation for reconnecting.

2. Attend Industry Events

Conferences, workshops, and other professional gatherings are fantastic places to meet people in your field. These events are designed to bring like-minded individuals together, so take advantage of the opportunity to strike up conversations. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to speakers or attendees.

3. Use Social Media Strategically

Platforms like LinkedIn aren’t just for uploading your résumé. Use them to engage with posts, share your own insights, and connect with professionals in your industry. When sending connection requests, include a brief personalized note so it feels intentional and thoughtful.

4. Join Professional Groups

Many industries have associations, clubs, or online communities where members support one another. Becoming part of these groups can help you meet experienced professionals as well as peers who share your goals.

5. Volunteer Your Skills

One of the best ways to connect naturally is by volunteering. Whether it’s for an organization or a project in your field, offering to help allows you to showcase your abilities while meeting people who value your contributions.

6. Don’t Just Focus on Networking “Up”

Networking isn’t just about connecting with people higher up on the career ladder. Building relationships with peers or colleagues at the same level is equally important. You never know where someone’s career will take them, and mutual support is always valuable.

How to Maintain Professional Relationships

Meeting people is only the first step. Building a strong network depends on maintaining these connections over time. Here are tips to keep professional relationships strong and mutually beneficial.

1. Follow Up After Meetings

Whenever you meet someone new, follow up within a few days. A simple email or message saying, “It was great meeting you at [event]. I’d love to stay in touch,” goes a long way.

2. Keep in Touch Regularly

Don’t just reach out when you need something. Keep the relationship alive by occasionally checking in. Send a brief email to ask how they’re doing, share an article they might find interesting, or congratulate them on a recent achievement.

3. Offer Help and Support

Networking is a two-way street. Ask how you can help others, whether it’s offering advice, introducing them to someone in your circle, or sharing a resource. If you’re always asking for favors without offering anything in return, people may stop responding.

4. Be Authentic

People can usually sense when someone is being fake or insincere. Approach networking with a genuine interest in getting to know others and learning from them. Authenticity strengthens relationships and makes your connections more meaningful.

5. Use Technology Wisely

Use tools like LinkedIn to stay connected with your network. You can also set up reminders to check in with key connections every few months so you don’t lose touch.

6. Respect Boundaries

Keep in mind that everyone has a busy schedule. Be respectful of people’s time and don’t expect immediate replies or lengthy responses. Building trust takes time, so be patient.

Examples of Networking in Action

Still not sure how to apply these strategies? Here are a couple of real-world examples to inspire you.

  • Example 1: The Informational Interview
  • Jessica, a recent graduate, was interested in working in digital marketing but wasn’t sure where to start. She reached out to an alum from her university who worked at a marketing agency and asked for an informational interview. During their coffee chat, Jessica learned about the field, gained advice on developing her skills, and even got referred to an internship opening.
  • Example 2: From Small Talk to Big Opportunity
  • Mark met a software engineer at a networking event and connected with her on LinkedIn afterward. Over the next year, he kept in touch by commenting on her posts and sharing industry news. When her company was hiring, she messaged Mark directly to recommend that he apply.