Master Networking Like a Pro: 8 Expert-Backed Strategies to Build Meaningful Connections

Networking is more than just sharing job openings or climbing the corporate ladder. It's about building relationships that provide mutual value and help you grow both personally and professionally. With the right strategies, you can turn a good networking experience into a great one.

What Is Networking?

Networking is the intentional process of building and nurturing professional relationships that provide mutual value, explains Kimberly Brown, Career and Leadership Expert. "Networking works because careers are fundamentally built on relationships—people hire, promote, and recommend people they know and trust."

While many think of networking as large meeting rooms filled with eager participants, there are different types to help achieve your goals:

• Professional networking happens at conferences, business events, through one-on-one conversations with coworkers, or while learning from a mentor. "These connections help us grow our careers, expand our influence, and access new opportunities," says Brian Smith, founder of IA Business Advisors.
• Personal networking occurs through family, friends, yoga classes, mom groups, at the gym, or other activities. "These relationships often support our emotional and mental health, giving us a sense of belonging, identity, and unconditional support," Smith adds.

Strategies for Effective In-Person Networking

Networking is about more than just talking. The right strategies can help you connect, foster meaningful relationships, and even enjoy the process.

"Networking isn’t just about who you meet—it’s about how you show up," Smith says. "When you lead with intention, stay true to your values, and remain open to growth, challenges become stepping stones—and your network becomes a source of strength, not stress."

Here are practical networking tips to consider:

• Be yourself. Whether you’re joining a new friend group or trying to find potential clients, let people meet the authentic you.
• Make personal connections. "Remember people’s names and something personal about them and what they care about. People don’t want to feel like they are mere contacts in your files to be useful," advises Richard E. Boyatzis, PhD, Professor at Case Western Reserve University.
• Show genuine interest in each person you meet. "Apply the ‘Probe’ principle by asking thoughtful questions that demonstrate genuine interest in others before talking about yourself," says Andres Lares, career expert and Managing Partner at Shapiro Negotiations Institute.
• Be prepared. If you’re going to a conference, research the speakers and other attendees before you go. You’ll feel more confident and interact meaningfully.
• Make quality interactions your goal. "Rather than collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections, invest time in fewer, deeper relationships," says Brown. "One strong advocate is worth more than 50 casual acquaintances."

Strategies for Networking Online

While networking online may seem easier than face-to-face, it can take more effort to make authentic connections.

Consider these strategies to improve your online interactions:

• When people see your profile, let them learn more about you. Your online forum should give insight into who you are, your mission, and your goals.
• Make your words count. "Engage consistently, not constantly," Smith advises. "Comment, share, and message when it adds value—but avoid scrolling or reacting mindlessly. Your time and energy are assets."
• Create boundaries. It’s easy to waste time mindlessly scrolling. Take breaks from screens when needed. Set a time limit to engage and then disconnect.

Why Does Networking Matter?

According to Cornell University, almost 80% of job openings aren’t advertised to the general public. That means those positions are filled by someone who likely heard about it from someone else—through networking!

"I have never had a job where I formally applied and then ultimately got the job after an interview process," says Lares. "My jobs have come from meeting people at conferences, introductions set up through former colleagues or classmates, people that I reached out to during school to get to know and have kept in touch with, etc."

Meeting others through networking also fosters strong, interconnected support. "Social support is the foundation of effective networking," Brown explains. "Building genuine connections creates a community of people who can provide emotional encouragement, practical advice, and strategic introductions."

That type of connection has mental health benefits. LinkedIn notes that networking helps combat alienation, isolation, and loneliness while fostering a sense of being understood, valued, and supported.

How To Overcome Networking Challenges

For many people, networking with strangers or even acquaintances is a dreaded task. In fact, more than 70% of Americans say they’d rather be silent than engage in small talk.

Luckily, there are strategies for dealing with the challenges you might face while networking.

Dealing with Networking Anxiety

It's not uncommon to feel butterflies when heading to your first book club meeting or stepping into a dinner party. This often stems from the fear of saying or doing the wrong thing.

You can help overcome networking anxiety by pre-planning discussion topics to use as conversation starters. You can also set a realistic goal, such as having three meaningful discussions before leaving an event.

Strategies for Introverts

"Networking affects introverts differently because their energy is depleted rather than enhanced by extensive social interaction," Lares says. "However, introverts often excel at the ‘Probe’ phase of networking, as they tend to be excellent listeners and ask thoughtful questions. Introverts can focus on quality over quantity in networking."

"Introverts can leverage their natural strengths in one-on-one conversations and deeper connections rather than trying to work a room," Lares continues. "By adequately preparing and setting realistic goals for each networking opportunity, introverts can network effectively without overwhelm."

Handling Rejection and Setbacks

No one likes rejection. Unfortunately, when you start talking to someone you don’t know well, it can open the door for them to not be interested. Then, there’s the fear that your follow-up efforts will be met with silence.

Try to avoid taking rejection personally. Brown says to "redirect your energy to receptive connections rather than dwelling on those that didn't materialize." Having coping mechanisms in place for networking challenges can make you feel more empowered and ready to face the task at hand.