Networking doesn’t have to feel like asking for favors or sending awkward DMs. The best networking is simply building micro-relationships consistently—small, thoughtful touchpoints that compound over time. If you’ve been “meaning to network” but never get around to it, try this simple 15-minutes-a-week framework.
Set a timer and do one of the following each week:
Reach out to someone in your field with a short note that’s easy to reply to.
Example message:
“Hi Maya—your post on simplifying stakeholder updates was super helpful. I’m building that habit now. Quick question: when you’re aligning execs, do you prefer a weekly written recap or a short live check-in?”
Send a resource that matches their interests:
This builds trust fast and makes future conversations feel natural.
Make one thoughtful introduction (only if it benefits both people):
A few quick tweaks can increase responses:
Informational interviews are great—but only if you follow through. After the chat:
Instead of “I need a job,” try:
That mindset change makes your outreach calmer, more curious, and far more effective.
Your turn: What’s the hardest part of networking for you right now—starting the first message, keeping momentum, or knowing what to say after someone responds?
This is a strong framework—especially the “one small touchpoint” constraint. The biggest thing I’d add is a simple way to **track and create momentum*...
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