Networking doesn’t have to feel like collecting business cards or sending awkward DMs. The goal is building trust in small, repeatable steps—and you can do that in just two weeks with a simple system.
The 14-Day “Warm-Up” Plan
Use this approach to move from stranger → familiar → helpful contact without being pushy.
Days 1–3: Clarify your ask (so people can help)
Before you message anyone, write:
- Your target direction: role + industry (e.g., “Product Analyst in fintech”)
- Your proof points: 2–3 strengths/results (e.g., “SQL + dashboarding + stakeholder comms”)
- Your micro-ask: one specific thing (e.g., “10 minutes to sanity-check my resume bullets” or “Which teams typically own this work?”)
Days 4–7: Make your LinkedIn presence “reply-worthy”
People check your profile before responding. Quick upgrades:
- Add a headline that says what you do + who you help + focus area
- In “About,” lead with one sentence: “I help X do Y by Z”
- Add 2 quantified bullets in your most recent role (numbers beat adjectives)
- Turn on “Open to work” (visible to recruiters if you prefer)
The Message Formula That Gets Replies
Keep it short, specific, and human:
- Why them: “I saw you moved from consulting to data at Company X…”
- Why now: “I’m exploring similar transitions this quarter.”
- The ask: “Would you be open to a 15-minute chat next week?”
- The out: “No worries if your schedule’s packed.”
Pro tip: Send fewer messages, better messages. Aim for 5 high-intent outreaches/week.
Where to Find “Easy Yes” Conversations
Not all networking paths are equal. Start with:
- Alumni from your school/program (shared context = faster trust)
- Second-degree connections (ask for a warm intro)
- Professional groups/online communities where your target roles hang out
Follow-Up Without Feeling Annoying
Most people aren’t ignoring you—they’re busy.
- Follow up once after 4–6 business days
- Add value in the follow-up: a relevant article, event, or quick insight
- After a call, send a 2-line thank you + one takeaway and (if appropriate) ask: “Is there anyone else you’d suggest I speak with?”
Mini-Challenge
This week, choose 10 people and do:
- Comment thoughtfully on 2 posts (specific + genuine)
- Send 3 tailored outreach messages
- Book 1 informational chat
What’s the hardest part of networking for you right now—finding the right people, writing the message, or following up?