Mastering the Art of Networking: Strategies Beyond the Usual

Networking is often seen as attending events, swapping business cards, and hoping those connections lead somewhere. But let’s be real—how often does that approach actually work? Today, I want to break down how to take networking beyond the usual “what do you do?” routine and dive into strategies that will help you make meaningful connections, no matter where you are.

And if you’re more of a visual learner, I’ve got you covered! Watch the video for a deeper dive into these strategies.

1. Lead with Value, Not Intent

Let’s start with a game-changing mindset shift: focus on what you can give rather than what you can get. When you meet someone new, consider what you can offer them, whether it’s support, a helpful tip, or even just a listening ear.

Try asking, “What’s something exciting happening in your life or business right now?” It’s a question that goes beyond small talk and helps you connect in a way that feels genuine. When you approach new connections with curiosity and a desire to help, you’ll build trust and make a memorable impression.

2. Think Beyond Events

Networking doesn’t have to be confined to formal events! Some of the best connections happen in unexpected places—think of everyday interactions at the gym, on a flight, or even in online groups. By broadening your perspective on where networking can happen, you’ll open yourself up to new possibilities.

For example, I once connected with a business partner on a flight! We started chatting, realized we had mutual interests, and the rest was history. These opportunities are everywhere if you’re open to them.

3. The Power of Follow-Up

So you’ve made a connection—now what? Follow-up is where many people miss out on building genuine relationships. Instead of a generic “Nice to meet you,” make it personal. Reference something specific from your conversation or send a friendly message that shows you’re genuinely interested.

If they mentioned a recent trip or a project they’re working on, ask them how it went. Small gestures like these can make a big difference, helping you stand out and stay memorable.

4. Create Networking Opportunities

Why wait for networking events? Take the initiative and create your own opportunities. Host a coffee meetup, start a mastermind group, or introduce two people who could benefit from knowing each other. Not only does this foster a sense of community, but you also become someone people want to connect with.

I’ve hosted casual lunches where I introduced business owners, and it’s amazing to see how these connections grow and turn into something bigger. By being the connector, you build your own network naturally and with purpose.

5. Digital Networking: Making it Personal

In today’s world, digital networking is just as powerful as in-person connections. But don’t just send a standard LinkedIn connection request. Instead, try sending a quick voice or video message! It’s a personal touch that shows effort and helps you stand out.

Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and even podcasts are excellent tools for building genuine relationships. A simple voice message on LinkedIn can make a big impact and often leads to deeper conversations than a plain text message ever would.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of networking means moving beyond traditional approaches and leading with authenticity. The goal isn’t to collect as many contacts as possible but to build meaningful connections that can benefit you both. So take that first step—reach out to someone today with a personal, thoughtful message, and see where it takes you.

Have your own networking story or favorite technique? Drop it in the comments! And don’t forget to watch the video for even more insights on mastering the art of networking.