Why “more connections” isn’t the goal

Networking works best when you treat it like relationship-building, not lead generation. A small circle of people who know what you do and trust you will outperform hundreds of shallow connections—especially when you’re job searching, changing industries, or exploring roles.

The 3-part networking system (simple, repeatable)

1) Clarify your “one-sentence narrative”

People can’t help you if they don’t understand you. Try this format:

• I’m exploring: (role/industry)
• I bring: (2–3 strengths)
• I’m looking to learn: (a specific question)

Example: “I’m exploring customer success roles in B2B SaaS. I bring strong onboarding and stakeholder management experience. I’m trying to learn what separates great CS teams from average ones.”

2) Make outreach easy to say yes to

When you message someone, remove friction:

• Keep it to 5–7 sentences
• Be specific about why them (a post they wrote, shared background, their role)
• Ask for a 15-minute chat (not 30) and offer two time windows
• Make the request learning-focused: “I’m hoping to understand…”

Mini template (LinkedIn or email):

• “Hi [Name]—I found your profile through [source]. I’m exploring [direction] and noticed you [specific detail]. Would you be open to a quick 15-minute chat next week? I’d love to ask about [1 focused topic]. If easier, I can send questions async.”

3) Follow up with value (without being awkward)

Most people skip this—and it’s where relationships are built. After a conversation:

• Send a 24-hour thank-you with 2 bullets: what you learned + what you’ll do next
• Add one small “give”: share an article, a tool, a candidate lead, or a relevant event
• Set a light re-touch reminder for 4–6 weeks (“Quick update: I tried your advice…”)

Quick wins you can try this week

• Comment strategy: Leave 3 thoughtful comments on LinkedIn posts from people in your target space (specific, not “Great post!”).
• Warm introductions: Ask a friend/colleague, “Who’s one person you think I should talk to about [topic]?”
• Alumni shortcut: Search your school’s alumni by company + role and reach out with shared context.

Discussion prompt

If you had to choose one: What’s the hardest part of networking for you right now—starting outreach, keeping conversations going, or asking for referrals?