Are You Wasting Time Networking the Wrong Way?
Let’s talk about networking—the thing everyone says is “key to success” but most people are doing completely wrong.
Here’s the rookie mistake: You walk into a room, hand out a stack of business cards, give your elevator pitch a dozen times, and hope someone calls you back.
Let me break it to you: That’s not networking. That’s wasting paper.
Nobody remembers the card. They remember the conversation. They remember the connection. And most importantly, they remember the VALUE you brought to the table.
If you’re ready to ditch the card-stacking game and start networking like a pro, let’s dive into how it’s really done.
Why Networking Fails (and How to Fix It)
Most people approach networking with the wrong mindset. They think it’s about:
How many people they meet.
How fast they can pitch themselves.
How many business cards they can collect (or hand out).
Here’s the truth: Networking isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality.
Successful networking is about building relationships, not just contacts. It’s about showing up with authenticity and leaving people better off after meeting you.
How to Network Like a Pro
If you want to stop spinning your wheels and start making meaningful connections, here’s the real game plan:
1. Lead with Value
The first thing people want to know is: “What’s in it for me?”
Instead of opening with your pitch, ask yourself, “What value can I bring to this person?” Maybe it’s:
A connection to someone in your network.
Advice on a challenge they’re facing.
Simply listening to what they need.
When you lead with value, you leave a lasting impression.
2. Ask Great Questions
Networking isn’t about talking—it’s about listening.
Instead of rehearsing your pitch, focus on asking meaningful questions like:
“What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing right now?”
“What’s a big win you’ve had recently?”
“What inspired you to get into your line of work?”
The more genuinely curious you are, the more memorable you’ll be.
3. Play the Long Game
Here’s the biggest rookie mistake: Thinking networking is about immediate results.
The best connections don’t pay off overnight—they pay off over time.
That’s why following up is non-negotiable. After meeting someone:
Send a thank-you email or message.
Share an article, resource, or connection relevant to their goals.
Stay in touch periodically, even if it’s just to check in.
Consistency is key to building relationships that last.
4. Networking Happens Everywhere
Don’t wait for a “networking event” to connect with people. Some of the best opportunities happen in unexpected places:
At the gym.
In a coffee shop.
At your kid’s soccer game.
Be open, approachable, and ready to connect wherever you go.
The Power of Real Connections
Let me give it to you straight: One authentic connection is worth more than a dozen surface-level interactions.
When you focus on building relationships:
Opportunities find you.
Trust is built faster.
People remember you—and recommend you—long after you meet.
Networking isn’t about impressing people. It’s about connecting with them.
Your Networking Action Plan
If you’re ready to up your networking game, here’s what to do next:
Audit Your Approach:
Are you focused on pitching or connecting? If it’s the former, it’s time to shift gears.Set a Goal:
At your next event or interaction, aim to make one meaningful connection—not just hand out cards.Follow Up:
Pick one person you’ve met recently and send them a thoughtful message to keep the connection alive.Practice Everywhere:
Look for opportunities to connect outside of formal events. You never know who you might meet.
Final Thoughts
Networking isn’t a numbers game—it’s a relationships game.
Stop handing out cards and start showing up with value. Stop pitching and start listening. Stop chasing quick wins and start building long-term connections.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how many hands you shake—it’s about the trust you build and the value you create.
Your next move? Ditch the rookie mistakes and start connecting like a pro.