Networking That Actually Works
The Power of Networking
Now that you understand why networking matters, this part focuses on how to do it well, without feeling awkward, salesy, or fake.
Good networking isn’t about collecting contacts or asking for favours.
It’s about building trust, relevance, and momentum over time.
Before you watch the video below, read through these principles. They’ll help you recognise what actually works, and what doesn’t.
The Reality of Networking
Networking isn’t about quick wins or instant results.
The reality is that meaningful networks are built slowly, through consistent, genuine interactions over time.
1. Play the long game
Strong networks aren’t built in weeks; they’re built over years.
The goal isn’t immediate results. It’s momentum.
The people you connect with today can become:
future employers
collaborators or clients
mentors or sponsors
referral partners
Think relationships first, outcomes later.
2. Shift your mindset: think like the receiver
Most professionals are busy and selective with their time.
To stand out:
be specific
show you’ve done your homework
lead with genuine interest
The goal isn’t to impress — it’s to be relevant.
3. Relationships are built on value (not titles)
You don’t need to be senior to add value.
Value can look like:
sharing a useful resource
offering a fresh perspective
connecting two people
helping with research or small tasks
being genuinely curious and engaged
Students bring energy and new ideas.
Career changers bring maturity, context, and proven work habits.
Everyone brings something.
4. Make conversations count
When someone says yes to a chat:
build rapport first
come prepared with thoughtful questions
focus on learning, not impressing
Specific questions show respect for their time and help you stand out.
5. Always close with a next step
Before ending a good conversation, ask:
“Is there anyone else you’d recommend I connect with?”
This turns one conversation into many and helps your network grow through warm introductions.
6. Grow alongside your network
Networking works best when you’re also growing.
Continue to:
build skills
share what you’re learning
show up consistently
develop a visible personal brand
The goal isn’t to “network harder” — it’s to become someone others want to stay connected with.
Watch This Video
I really like Jay’s approach to networking.
Even though his story starts straight out of university, the principles are exactly the same ones I’ve used in my own career.
The biggest difference for me was how I reached out. I’ve done far less emailing and far more relationship-building through LinkedIn messages and conversations. But the mindset, curiosity, consistency, and adding value are the same.
This video reinforces that networking isn’t about volume or chasing outcomes. It’s about how you show up and how you build trust over time.
Now that you’ve read through what effective networking actually looks like, this video brings it all together in a practical, real-world way. Watch it with the lens of how you show up, not how many people you contact.