8 Tips To Network Like a Pro, According to Experts

Networking is more than just using word of mouth to share job openings or climb the corporate ladder. Ideally, networking helps you grow personally and professionally.

What is networking?

“Networking is the intentional act of building and nurturing professional relationships,” explains Kimberly Brown, career and leadership expert and founder of Brown Leadership. “Networking works because careers are fundamentally built on relationships – people hire, promote and recommend people they know and trust.”

When most people think of networking, they think of a large meeting room full of eager (and somewhat eggy) participants, trying to make connections to help further their careers. While this view is one aspect of networking, it doesn’t paint the whole picture.

There are different types of networking to help you achieve your goals:

• Professional networking Most people think of it as “networking”. This happens at conferences and business events, through one-on-one conversations with coworkers, or when learning from a mentor. “These connections help us grow our careers, expand our influence and help us access new opportunities,” says Brian Smith, founder and managing partner of IA Business Advisors.
• Personal networking When you meet people through family, friends, yoga classes, mom groups, at the gym, or other activities. The sense of camaraderie from these groups provides an enriching experience. “These relationships often support our emotional and mental health, giving us a sense of belonging, identity, and unconditional support,” says Smith.

Strategies for effective personal networking

Networking is more than just talking. The right strategy can help you not only connect and develop meaningful relationships, but also enjoy the process.

“Networking isn’t just about who you meet. It’s about how you show up,” says Smith. “When you lead with intention, stick to your values, and are open to growth, challenges become stepping stones—and your network becomes a source of strength, not stress.”

Here are some practical networking tips to consider:

• be yourself Whether you’re joining a new friend group or trying to find potential customers, let people meet the authentic you.
• Make personal connections. “Remember people’s names and what’s personal about them and about them,” says Richard E. Bouatzis, Ph.D., professor in the departments of organizational behavior, psychology, and cognitive science at Case Western Reserve University.
• Show genuine interest in everyone you meet. “Apply the principle of ‘probing’ by asking thoughtful questions that demonstrate a genuine interest in others before talking about yourself,” says Anders Lares, career expert and managing partner at the Shapiro Negotiation Institute.
• Be prepared. If you’re going to a conference, research the speakers and other people before you go. You will feel more confident and able to communicate meaningfully.
• Make quality interactions your goal. “Instead of collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections, invest time in fewer, deeper relationships,” says Brown. “A strong lawyer is worth more than 50 casual acquaintances.”

Strategies for Online Networking

While networking online may seem easier than talking face-to-face, making authentic connections can take more effort.

Consider these strategies to improve your online communication:

• When people view your profile, let them learn more about you. Your online forum should give people an insight into who you are, your mission and your goals.
• Make your words count. “Engage consistently, not permanently,” advises Smith. “Comment, share, and message when it adds value — but your time and energy are assets.”
• Create boundaries. It’s easy to waste precious time frantically scrolling. Take breaks from screens when needed. Give yourself a set amount of time to engage and then disengage.

Why does networking matter?

According to Cornell University, about 80% of job openings are not advertised to the general public. This means that the position is filled by someone who may have heard about it from someone else. In other words, those jobs are filled through networking!

“I’ve never gotten a job where I formally applied and then finally got the job after the interview process,” Laures says. “My jobs have come from meeting people at conferences, introductions made by former colleagues or classmates, people I reached out to during school and staying in touch and keeping in touch, etc.”

Meeting others through networking also fosters strong, cohesive collaborations. “Social support is the foundation of effective networking,” Brown explained. “Building genuine connections creates a community of people who can provide emotional encouragement, practical advice and strategic guidance.”

This type of communication has mental health benefits. LinkedIn notes that networking helps combat isolation and loneliness while promoting a sense of understanding, value and support.

How to overcome networking challenges

For many people, networking with strangers or even people they know is a daunting task. In fact, more than 70% of Americans say they’d rather be silent than engage in small talk.

Fortunately, there are strategies to deal with the challenges you face while networking.

Coping with networking anxiety

It’s not uncommon to feel butterflies in your stomach when you head to your first book club meeting or step into your boss’s dinner party. This feeling is often caused by the fear of saying or doing the wrong thing.

You can help overcome networking anxiety by pre-planning discussion topics to use as conversation starters.

You can also set a realistic goal for yourself, such as having three meaningful conversations before you leave the program.

Strategies for Introverts

“Networking affects introverts differently because their energy is fueled by extensive social interaction rather than social interaction,” Laures says. “However, introverts often excel in the ‘research’ phase of networking, as they are excellent listeners and ask thoughtful questions. Introverts can focus on quality over quantity in networking.

“Introverts can leverage their natural strengths in one-on-one conversations and deep connections, rather than working in a room,” says Larris. “By properly preparing and setting realistic goals for each networking opportunity, introverts can network effectively without feeling overwhelmed.”

Dealing with rejection and setbacks

Nobody likes rejection. Unfortunately, when you start talking to someone you don’t know very well, it can open the door for them not to be interested in you. Then, fear that your follow-up efforts will be met with silence.

Try to avoid rejection. “Redirect your energy to acceptable connections instead of dwelling on those that didn’t work out,” says Brown.

Having coping mechanisms in place for networking challenges can make you feel more empowered and ready to face the task at hand.