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​We all know networking is important, but in a world where many professionals spend their days behind screens, the how has become a little hazy. With fewer in-person events, limited office interactions and so much of our communication happening online, the skill of connecting meaningfully can easily fade.

The good news? Networking is a learnable skill, one that can be reignited with a clear approach and the right mindset. Below, we’ve outlined practical, actionable ways to build stronger, more authentic connections both online and in person.

1. Set Clear Goals Before Every Interaction

Walking into a networking event without a plan can feel overwhelming. Instead of trying to meet everyone in the room, set a goal, such as connecting with three to five people you can genuinely engage with.

• Focus on quality over quantity.

• Once you’ve met your target, it’s okay to leave, you’ve achieved your purpose.

• Follow up promptly after the event with a short, personalised message to keep the momentum going.

2. Reconnect with Dormant Contacts

Networking doesn’t always mean meeting new people. Often, the most valuable relationships are the ones we’ve already built.

• Scroll through your LinkedIn messages or past email threads and identify people you haven’t spoken to in a while.

• Reaching out to them feels more natural than a “cold” approach.

• Keep it simple: reference how you last connected or comment on something recent they’ve shared.

Example: “Hi Alex, it’s been a while since we last worked together on that SAP project, I saw your recent post about data migration and thought it was a great insight! Would love to catch up for a coffee if you‘ve got a chance next month”

3. Give Before You Take

Strong networks are built on reciprocity. If you can offer value first, you’ll stand out for the right reasons.

• Share knowledge, make introductions, or offer help in your area of expertise.

• Volunteer to present at a local industry meetup or mentor a junior professional.

• Ask yourself: How can I contribute to this community?

When you give without expecting immediate returns, people remember your generosity and authenticity.

4. Get Involved in Your Community

Volunteering and community involvement are powerful and often overlooked networking tools.

• Attend local industry events, charity functions, or professional associations.

• Join committees or event planning teams to meet people with shared interests.

• You’ll build relationships more naturally when you’re collaborating on something meaningful.

This also helps you connect with people outside your immediate professional circle, broadening your perspective and opportunities.

5. Rethink Your Small Talk

Let’s be honest “What do you do?” has become a networking cliché. To build real connections, ask more thoughtful questions that encourage conversation.

Try these alternatives:

• “What roles have you had that led you to where you are today?”

• “What projects have you been most proud of recently?”

• “Where have you lived or travelled that’s had the most impact on your career?”

These questions invite storytelling, not status updates and that’s where real rapport begins.

6. Be Specific When Reaching Out

Avoid vague requests like “Can I pick your brain?” It puts the onus on the other person to define the conversation. Instead:

• Be clear about why you’re reaching out.

• Reference something specific that connects you, such as a shared interest, article, or event.

• State your intent and respect their time.

Example: “Hi Priya, I came across your post on SAP S/4HANA implementations in the public sector. I’m currently working on a similar project and would love to understand how your team approached the data migration phase, would you be open to a quick 15-minute chat?”

7. Maintain Your Network Year-Round

Networking isn’t just a one-off event it’s an ongoing practice. Keep relationships warm by:

• Sending quick check-ins every few months.

• Congratulating people on career moves or achievements.

• Sharing articles, insights, or opportunities that might interest them.

Consistency builds trust and ensures you’re top of mind when opportunities arise.

8. Mix Digital and In-Person Efforts

While LinkedIn and virtual meetings are valuable, face-to-face interaction remains unmatched for building rapport.

• Attend industry conferences or smaller local meetups.

• Arrange coffee chats when possible even if it’s just quarterly.

• Use digital tools to complement, not replace, real-world connection.

9. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Follow-Up

The follow-up is often where connections are solidified. Within 24–48 hours of meeting someone:

• Send a short thank-you message referencing something you discussed.

• Connect on LinkedIn with a personal note.

• If appropriate, suggest a next step even if it’s just staying in touch.

Small gestures make a big difference in how memorable you are.

Final Thought

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or adding LinkedIn connections,it’s about building relationships that grow over time. Whether it’s a short chat at an event, a thoughtful message online, or volunteering in your community, every interaction can open new doors.

So, next time you’re tempted to sit behind the screen take the first step. Reach out, reconnect, and start rebuilding the lost art of connection.

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