How to improve your networking skills for career success

What is networking?

Networking is the practise of building and maintaining professional relationships that support career development and business success. It's about exchanging ideas, information, and opportunities with others who share a common industry, interest, or goal. Professional networking relies on genuine connection and mutual benefit.

Networking can take many forms: attending industry events, joining professional associations, engaging in online communities, or reaching out to peers and mentors. Even informal moments, like conversations during lunch breaks, can contribute to a strong professional network. When approached intentionally, networking can expand your knowledge, introduce you to new opportunities, and help you stay visible and connected in your field.

Why networking is important for career advancement

When it comes to progressing your career, your connections can make all the difference. Professional networking isn’t just about meeting new people; it’s about building a web of relationships that support your goals, challenge your thinking, and open doors to opportunities you may not find on your own. 

Five key benefits of networking

1. It boosts your visibility 
   The more people who know who you are, what you do, and what you’re great at, the more likely you are to be thought of for new jobs or projects. Visibility puts you on people’s radar for new opportunities. Regular networking helps you stay top of mind in your industry, which can lead to unexpected invitations and introductions.
   
   
2. It builds your professional confidence 
   Interacting with peers and leaders gives you the chance to articulate your ideas, share your accomplishments, and receive feedback. Over time, these conversations build your confidence in how you present yourself and your value. Practising this helps you to speak more naturally about your skills and ambitions.
   
   
3. It expands your perspective through idea exchange 
   Networking is a chance to learn. By engaging with people from diverse backgrounds or industries, you expose yourself to different ways of thinking, trends, and approaches to challenges. These fresh insights can spark innovation in your own work and help you grow professionally.
   
   
4. It connects you with people at all levels 
   From peers in your industry to senior leaders and potential mentors, networking helps you meet professionals at various stages in their careers. These relationships can guide your development and potentially advocate for you when new opportunities arise. Even a quick chat with someone more experienced can potentially shift your career direction.
   
   
5. It supports your social wellbeing 
   Career development isn’t just about getting promoted, it’s about finding a sense of connection, purpose, and belonging. Professional relationships can become a source of encouragement, inspiration, and support, especially during career transitions or challenging times. Strong networks remind you that you’re not navigating your career alone.

What are the challenges of networking?

Networking doesn’t always come easily. It can feel rather daunting, and that is normal. Here are a few common hurdles professionals face, along with simple ways to overcome them:

• Feeling awkward or self-conscious: Starting conversations, especially in unfamiliar environments, can feel intimidating. If this sounds familiar, ease in by simply showing up to an event without putting pressure on yourself to impress. Even listening in on conversations or saying hello to one person is progress.
  
  
• Fear of rejection or coming across as self-serving: Many people worry about being seen as opportunistic. A great way to sidestep this is to focus on shared interests. Ask about someone’s career path, recent projects, or even common hobbies to create a more natural connection. 
  
  
• Not knowing where to start: If large events feel overwhelming, start small. Bring a colleague or friend to help boost your confidence or begin with online communities where the pace of interaction is more manageable.
  
  
• Time constraints: Networking doesn’t have to be time-consuming. A quick message to reconnect with a former colleague or attending one short lunch-and-learn session can keep your network active without overloading your calendar.
  
  
• Lack of immediate results: Building relationships takes time, and that’s okay. Focus on genuine interactions rather than instant opportunities, and you’ll find your network grows organically over time.

The key is to start where you feel comfortable and gradually build from there. With consistency and curiosity, networking becomes more natural and rewarding. 

Professional networking examples

Networking happens in many different moments, online and offline. Here are some practical examples to show how networking plays out in real life and how you can use these moments to build valuable connections:

Reaching out on LinkedIn after a webinar 
You attend an online panel about future trends in your industry. One of the speakers shares insights that really resonate with you. After the event, you send them a LinkedIn message: “Hi [Name], I really enjoyed your thoughts on AI in recruitment during today’s session. I’d love to stay connected and continue learning from your work.” 
This opens the door to a longer-term connection, even if you never met face-to-face.

Chatting with a colleague from another department 
At a company social event, you strike up a conversation with someone from a team you don’t usually work with. You learn you share an interest in content strategy and agree to grab coffee next week to swap ideas. That one conversation could lead to a cross-functional project or even a new internal opportunity.

Introducing two people in your network 
A friend mentions they’re hiring a graphic designer. You remember someone you met at a previous networking night who does just that kind of work. You introduce them via email: “Hi [Friend], meet [Designer]. I thought of you both because I know you’re looking for help with visual branding. Hope there’s a way you can collaborate!” 
By connecting people in your network to each other, you build trust and reinforce your role as someone who adds value.

Participating in online communities 
You join a LinkedIn group focused on emerging tech in your industry. You regularly comment on posts, share helpful articles, and ask thoughtful questions. One day, a fellow member reaches out to thank you for your input and offers to connect for a virtual coffee chat. That conversation leads to a collaboration on a side project that boosts your portfolio.

Joining professional associations 
As a member of a professional body related to your field, you gain access to exclusive networking mixers and events. At one event, you meet a peer who invites you to speak at an upcoming webinar. That opportunity not only boosts your personal brand and visibility, but also connects you with more people interested in your area of expertise.

Leveraging social media 
You actively share your professional wins, thoughts on industry trends, and interesting content on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram. A recruiter notices your posts and messages you about a potential opportunity. Meanwhile, a comment you leave on someone else's post sparks a conversation that turns into a new professional relationship.

How to improve your networking skills

Networking is a skill that anyone can develop with practise, intentionality, and a bit of courage. Whether you're new to networking or looking to take your connections to the next level, the key is to approach it with generosity, curiosity, and long-term thinking. Here’s how you can become a more confident and effective networker:

1. Give before you ask 
   The most powerful networks are built on reciprocity. Instead of focusing on what you can gain, start by thinking about what you can offer. Can you share useful resources, make an introduction, or offer encouragement? Being generous with your knowledge, time, or support builds goodwill and trust. Remember, people are more likely to help someone who has already shown a willingness to give.
   
   
2. Make networking a habit, not a one-off 
   Don’t wait until you need a job or a favour to start networking. Strong networks are built over time, not overnight. Look for regular opportunities to connect with new people, check in with existing contacts, and nurture relationships. The more consistent you are, the more natural it becomes.
   
   
3. Let curiosity drive your conversations 
   Rather than trying to meet everyone in the room, focus on having meaningful conversations. Ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and show genuine interest in what others care about. This creates stronger, more memorable connections. Remember to follow up where appropriate, to remind the person of something you discussed and potentially keep the conversation going.
   
   
4. Embrace ‘weak ties’ 
   You don’t have to be best friends with someone for them to help shape your career. In fact, it’s often acquaintances (your "weak ties”) who introduce you to new opportunities, ideas, or people outside your immediate circle. Don’t underestimate the power of casual connections.
   
   
5. Be strategic about who you follow up with 
   Not every connection will be meaningful, and that’s okay. Choose to follow up with people you genuinely clicked with, or those who share your interests or values. You’re more likely to build authentic relationships that last. It’s not about collecting names; it’s about creating real connections.
   
   
6. Know your boundaries 
   Before you attend a networking event or reach out to someone, be clear on what you’re comfortable offering. Maybe you’re happy to make introductions but don’t feel right recommending someone for a job you don’t know well. That’s okay. When you set boundaries ahead of time, you’ll feel more confident and authentic in your interactions.
   
   
7. Network in places that suit you 
   There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. If large events overwhelm you, try joining an online group, attending a virtual panel, or setting up one-on-one coffee chats. Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect in a way that fits your style and energy.
   
   
8. Look for common ground 
   Everyone you meet is more than their job title. Look for shared interests, hobbies, or life experiences that go beyond work. These personal connections often lay the foundation for deeper, more meaningful relationships.
   
   
9. Share Opportunities Proactively 
   When you come across an article, event, or job listing that might help someone in your network, send it their way. This small gesture can have a big impact and encourages others to do the same for you.
   
   
10. Work on your body language 
    Confidence isn’t just about what you say, it’s how you present yourself. Keep an open posture, smile, and make eye contact. These non-verbal cues signal approachability and help others feel comfortable around you.

Building connections that last

Networking is about creating genuine, lasting relationships that support your growth, learning, and career goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, investing time in your network can open doors you didn’t even know existed.  

Download our soft skills e-guide to learn how to highlight networking strengths on your CV, write about them effectively in cover letters, and confidently speak to them in interviews. Plus, get access to practical tools and templates to help you showcase your soft skills with impact.