Networking works best when it doesn’t feel transactional—to you or the other person. If you’ve ever thought “I don’t know what to say” or “I don’t want to bother them,” this framework keeps it simple, consistent, and low-pressure.

The 15-Minute Weekly Networking Routine

Set a recurring calendar block and do just three things:

1) Reconnect with one “warm” contact (5 minutes)

Pick someone you already know: former coworker, classmate, manager, mentor, or recruiter.

• Send a 1–2 sentence check-in
• Reference something specific: a role change, a project, a post they shared
• Make it easy to respond

Message template:

“Hi [Name]—saw you’re now at [Company]/working on [X]. Congrats! How’s it going? Would love to hear what you’re focused on lately.”

2) Start one new conversation (5 minutes)

Choose one person on LinkedIn who matches one of these:

• Works in a role you’re exploring
• Is an alum from your school/program
• Shares content in your target industry

Connection note template:

“Hi [Name]—I’m exploring [role/field] and noticed your path from [shared point]. Would you be open to connecting? I’d love to learn from your perspective.”

3) Add value once (5 minutes)

You don’t need “big value.” Small, relevant, and thoughtful wins.

• Share an article with a 1-line takeaway
• Introduce two people (only if genuinely useful)
• Comment on a post with a specific insight
• Offer a quick resource: template, tool, event link

Value message template:

“Thought of you when I saw this—especially the point about [X]. Here’s the link if helpful: [URL].”

How to Ask for an Informational Interview (Without Feeling Awkward)

When someone engages, shift to a clear, respectful ask:

• Time-box it (15–20 minutes)
• Be specific about what you want to learn
• Remove pressure (offer options)

Ask template:

“If you’re open to it, could I ask you a few questions about [team/role/company] on a 15–20 minute call? Totally flexible—happy to work around your schedule.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Asking too broadly: “Can you help me get a job?” → Try: “Can I learn how you transitioned into [role]?”
• Making it about you only: Balance your story with curiosity about theirs.
• Ghosting after the call: Send a thank-you and one concrete takeaway within 24 hours.

Your Turn

If you committed to 15 minutes per week for the next month, what would be the hardest part for you—starting outreach, staying consistent, or knowing what to say after they respond?