So, you went to a networking event. You put on your best ‘I’m totally an extrovert’ face, swapped business cards like you were dealing poker, scanned more QR codes than a cashier at checkout, and maybe even impressed someone by remembering their name without sneakily checking your notes. Now what?
Most people go home, throw those business cards in the abyss that is their desk drawer, and carry on as if nothing happened. But not you. No, you’re about to turn those handshakes into real opportunities. So buckle up—we’re going beyond the small talk and diving into exactly how you make networking work for you.
1. Networking Isn’t Just About Showing Up—It’s About Showing Up Prepared
I recently attended the Young Moguls Mixer Brunch Edition, and let me tell you—it wasn’t just about sipping water and taking aesthetically pleasing photos for Instagram. It was a masterclass in personal branding and social capital, thanks to some powerhouse speakers.
Shoutout to Tutsirai Jenje, a Legacy Brand Building Strategist who spilled all the tea on how to build your signature legacy brand starting with deciding you want people to know your name. And a massive thank you to Tinotenda Borerwe, who broke down how to build real, meaningful connections that actually help you grow (spoiler: it’s NOT by spamming people’s DMs with “Hey dear, I love your profile, let’s connect!”). And of course, Nicole Duma, the brilliant founder and host, for putting together such a valuable event.
But showing up is just step one. The real work starts before you even walk through the door.
How to Prepare Like a Pro
- Set an intention. Are you looking for clients? Collaborations? Just want to get better at networking without feeling like a pushy used car salesman? Decide ahead of time.
- Stalk strategically. (The non-creepy kind.) If you can, check the event guest list, research speakers, and make note of people you’d love to meet.
- Update your digital presence. People WILL look you up. Make sure your LinkedIn and website aren’t still advertising the side hustle you abandoned in 2021.
- Perfect your elevator pitch. Not in a robotic, “I help X do Y through Z” way, but in a way that feels natural and gets people intrigued.
2. The Art of Connecting Without Feeling Pushy
If the thought of walking up to strangers makes you break out in a cold sweat, you’re not alone. But networking isn’t about selling—it’s about connecting. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ask interesting questions. “So, what do you do?” is predictable. Try, “What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?” or “How did you end up in your industry?”
- Listen more than you talk. People love talking about themselves. Let them.
- Don’t pitch—position. Instead of jumping into a sales pitch, focus on having a memorable conversation. The best connections happen organically.
- Know when to move on. Some conversations have an expiry date. Learn to exit gracefully: “I loved chatting with you! I want to make sure I meet a few more people before the event ends, but let’s stay in touch.”
3. The Month After: Turning “Nice to Meet You” into “Let’s Work Together”
This is where the payout happens. If you don’t follow up, you may as well have stayed home and watched Netflix. (Honestly, at least then you wouldn’t have to worry about small talk.)
The Post-Networking Game Plan
Within 24-48 hours:
- Send a quick follow-up message that’s not just “Great meeting you!” Add something specific from your conversation.
- Connect on LinkedIn with a short note (not the default request—you’re better than that).
Within the first week:
- Engage with their content (like, comment, or share something insightful).
- Offer value before asking for anything. Share an article, introduce them to someone relevant, or send a useful resource.
Within the first month:
- If you see a clear opportunity, propose a next step. “Hey, you mentioned needing help with XYZ—would love to chat about how I can support you.”
- If you don’t see an immediate opportunity, keep nurturing the connection. Relationships take time.
Final Thoughts: Make Networking Work for You
Networking isn’t about collecting business cards like Pokémon—it’s about building real relationships. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the game for a while, the key is being intentional, following up, and actually providing value.
Networking is an investment—make sure you get a return on it.
Psst… join our newsletter if you want more juicy tips on building your brand with digital marketing—your future self will totally thank you!
I’m Rejoice, and I help early-stage & small businesses earn more through better planning and digital marketing. Follow me if you want strategies and systems to ditch the small-time hustle and embrace business ownership, develop solutions to real problems, and still have money on the side to feel all the feels of being alive and empowered.
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