Networking doesn’t have to mean awkward small talk or collecting LinkedIn connections you’ll never speak to again. The most effective approach is relationship-building with intention—small, consistent actions that create real professional allies over time.

The mindset shift: from “asking” to adding value

People respond best when you:

• Show genuine curiosity about their work
• Make it easy to reply
• Offer something useful (even small): a relevant article, a thoughtful question, or a quick intro

A strong network isn’t built in one coffee chat—it’s built through micro-moments of trust.

A simple 15-minute weekly networking system

Pick one day each week and do three quick actions:

1) Reconnect (5 minutes)

Message someone you already know—former coworker, classmate, recruiter, or manager.

• Keep it light: one update + one question
• Example: “Hi Maya—saw your team launched X, congrats! I’m exploring roles in Y this quarter. Curious: what skills are you seeing most in demand right now?”

2) Add 1 new “right-fit” connection (5 minutes)

On LinkedIn, target people you’d genuinely learn from:

• Alumni from your school
• People in roles you’re aiming for
• Hiring managers or team leads (selectively)

Connection note formula (2 lines):

• Why them (specific)
• What you’re exploring (brief)

3) Nurture one relationship (5 minutes)

Follow up with someone you spoke with previously.

• Share an update (“I tried your suggestion…”)
• Send a resource (“This reminded me of our chat…”)
• Offer help (“Happy to connect you with…”)

Make informational interviews easier (and more productive)

If you’re requesting a quick chat, reduce friction:

• Ask for 15 minutes, not 30
• Offer 2–3 time windows
• Include 1–2 focused questions (not a full list)

Great questions to ask:

• “What’s something people misunderstand about your role?”
• “If you were breaking into this field today, what would you do first?”
• “What projects or metrics matter most on your team?”

Common networking pitfalls (and quick fixes)

• Too generic: “Can I pick your brain?” → Replace with a specific ask.
• Too long: Huge messages don’t get replies → Keep it under 80–120 words.
• Only reaching out when you need something: Schedule light touchpoints even when you’re not job searching.

Quick challenge for this week

Send one reconnection message and one targeted new connection request—both personalized, both short.

What’s your biggest networking hurdle right now: finding the right people, writing the message, or keeping relationships warm over time?