Networking doesn’t have to mean collecting business cards or sending random LinkedIn requests. The goal is simple: build trust through small, consistent interactions—and make it easy for the right people to remember you.

The 15-minute networking routine (repeat 2–3x/week)

If networking feels overwhelming, try this lightweight system:

• 5 minutes: Identify 1 person you genuinely want to learn from (same industry, role, or company you’re targeting).
• 5 minutes: Engage thoughtfully (comment on a post, share an article with a short insight, or reply to something they wrote).
• 5 minutes: Send a low-pressure message that’s specific and easy to answer.

This routine works because it’s consistent—and because your outreach is tied to real context.

What to say on LinkedIn (copy/paste templates)

Here are a few message formats that don’t feel spammy:

• Context + curiosity

  • “Hi [Name]—I saw your post about [topic]. I’m exploring [area] and loved your point about [specific detail]. What’s one skill you’d prioritize if you were starting over?”

• Warm micro-ask (easy “yes”)

  • “Hi [Name], quick question—are there any newsletters/communities you’d recommend for someone breaking into [field]?”

• Informational interview request (with boundaries)

  • “Hi [Name]—I’m considering a move into [role] and noticed your path through [company/team]. Would you be open to a 15-minute chat sometime in the next two weeks? I have 3 specific questions and will come prepared.”

Make it memorable: your “one-line intro”

When someone asks what you do (or what you’re aiming for), avoid the vague version. Try:

• I’m pursuing [role] + focused on [skill/problem] + most recently did [proof]
• Example: “I’m transitioning into data analytics, focused on customer insights—I recently built a churn dashboard project using SQL and Tableau.”

Don’t just network “up”—build a cohort

Some of the best opportunities come from peers who grow with you. Consider:

• Alumni groups (easy shared context)
• Professional groups (industry-specific Slack/Discords)
• Small meetups (lower noise, higher connection)

Quick challenge (try this today)

1. Update your LinkedIn headline to reflect where you’re going, not only where you’ve been.
2. Leave one high-quality comment that adds an insight (not “Great post!”).
3. Send one micro-ask message to someone relevant.

What’s the hardest part of networking for you right now—starting the conversation, keeping it going, or asking for the call?