Networking Fundamentals

What if the best networking strategy had nothing to do with “networking” at all? Back in 2014, I started a group called “Delhi Internet Mafia”. To learn from and share insights with founders based out of Delhi. I would cold email founders to show up for the catchup. Vijay Shekhar Sharma of Paytm showed up for one of them. I remember being blown away by his energy, his ambition and his clarity. We stayed in touch. A few years later, Paytm invested in my startup nearbuy. If it weren’t for that group, we may have never raised money from Paytm. 3 ways to build genuine relationships: 1/ Do not try to impress. Be impressed. People can see through your attempts to impress them. But what people can truly be attracted to is your interest in them. Genuine interest. 2/ Engage meaningfully. If engaging offline, ask questions out of pure curiosity. To truly understand. If engaging online, don’t just comment “Great post!” - add insight or ask smart questions. 3/ Give before you ask. That could be sharing feedback on their work, amplifying their content, or connecting them to someone useful. You can never fail with authenticity and trust.

Build relationships and not a network. "Networking" is cringeworthy for many, especially those who feel it is selfish, wrong, or uncomfortable. The good news is that nobody wants to be at the receiving end of your networking efforts too. If you are trying the same old networking tips that promise to boost your connections but leave you feeling more disconnected than ever, that is because networking is killing relationship building. Stop networking and build genuine relationships. You can do that by thinking about a few things. ➡️ Be genuinely curious - Be interested in learning more about the other person in the conversation. ➡️ Find commonalities - Find common topics like books, kids, dogs, and food but remember that while discussing such common topics can be a good icebreaker, relying solely on these surface-level interests can hinder deeper connections. Dig a little deeper into shared passions or experiences to foster a more meaningful bond. ➡️ Relationships over transactions - Don't treat networking as a transaction. Look for ways to help others genuinely without expecting an immediate return or any return. Building a network based on mutual support and generosity fosters authentic connections that go beyond mere self-interest. ➡️ Notes of gratitude vs. genuine appreciation - Sending notes of gratitude can be powerful, but they lose their impact if they become a routine gesture. Instead, express genuine appreciation when someone has truly made a difference. Personalized and heartfelt acknowledgments go a long way in building lasting connections. ➡️ Public networks vs. personal connections - Investing in public networks can widen your reach, but don't neglect the importance of personal connections. Balancing both public and private networks ensures a well-rounded and authentic approach to relationship building. Remember fostering genuine relationships is important. By avoiding the common pitfalls of networking and focusing on authentic connections, you will be building a network that truly matters.

🤝 Networking feels awkward? You’re not alone. If the idea of reaching out to someone for “networking” makes you cringe, you’re not the only one. Many of us associate networking with forced small talk, sales pitches, or feeling like we’re asking for favours. But here’s the truth: Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional. When done right, it’s about building authentic, mutually beneficial connections that can open doors and provide value to both parties. Here’s how to make networking feel natural and effective: 1️⃣ Start with Common Ground When reaching out, mention something you genuinely admire or have in common. This could be their work on a specific project, attending the same school, or even shared connections. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I recently read about your work on [specific project], and I found it fascinating! As someone interested in [related topic], I’d love to hear about your approach.” 2️⃣ Shift the Mindset from “Getting” to “Giving” Instead of asking for favours, think about how you can offer value. Sharing helpful insights, articles, or even thoughtful comments on LinkedIn posts can create goodwill and start a genuine conversation. 👉 Example: Commenting on their post: “I really appreciate your take on [topic]. It reminded me of [specific example/experience], and I’m excited to apply this in my own work!” 3️⃣ Ask for Advice, Not Favours People love to share their expertise, and asking for advice shows respect for their knowledge. It’s a low-pressure way to connect while learning something valuable. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [industry/role], and your career journey is inspiring. Would you be open to a quick chat to share advice on [specific topic]?” 4️⃣ Follow Up with Gratitude Networking doesn’t end after one conversation. Send a thank-you note, share how their advice helped, or engage with their updates online to maintain the connection. 👉 Example: “Thank you for taking the time to chat with me! Your advice on [topic] was so helpful—I’ve already started applying it and am seeing progress. Let’s stay in touch!” 💡 Final Thought: Networking isn’t about collecting connections; it’s about building relationships. Approach each interaction with curiosity, authenticity, and a genuine desire to add value, and you’ll find it feels much less awkward—and a lot more rewarding. How do you make networking feel natural? Let’s share ideas below! 💬👇 #NetworkingTips #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalConnections #JobSearch

It's Not an Event. It's a Way of Life... When most people hear the word networking, they think of name tags, conference halls, LinkedIn connections, and polite small talk over canapés. But real networking is far more powerful—and far more personal—than that. Networking isn’t an event. It’s a way of showing up in the world. You are networking every time you make a genuine connection, express interest in someone else’s journey, or offer value without expectation. Weddings. Funerals. Church. School functions. Even a neighbor’s BBQ. You don’t need to wait for a “networking event” to build your network. Life is full of opportunities to connect—if you’re paying attention. How to Network Without Calling It Networking 1. Do more listening than talking. The best networkers are not smooth talkers. They are curious listeners. People open up when they feel heard. When they feel seen. Make it your goal to leave every interaction knowing more about the other person than they know about you. 2. Focus less on what you want to get. Pour more into what you can give. Ask not, “What can this person do for me?” but, “What can I do for them?” Sometimes that’s an introduction, a compliment, a resource—or just showing up and caring. It’s a shift from extraction to generosity. 3. Never show up empty-handed. Whether it’s a boardroom, someone’s home, or a casual meet-up—bring something. Small gestures leave deep impressions. This doesn’t always mean a gift you buy. It could be a kind word, a thoughtful question, or a helping hand. Relationships Are Not One-Size-Fits-All 4. Use emotional intelligence. Not everyone wants the same kind of connection. Some people thrive on regular contact. Others prefer a quiet, respectful “keep-warm” relationship. Pay attention. Let your EQ guide how and how often you engage. 5. Build bridges, not just ladders. A strong network is not made up only of the most powerful people in the room. Sometimes the most helpful person is the least expected. Be intentional about cultivating both vertical and horizontal relationships—mentors, peers, juniors. Diversity brings strength, creativity, and resilience. 6. Play the long game. Networking isn’t about quick wins. It’s about planting seeds and nurturing them over time. Be consistent. Be genuine. One small interaction today might become a transformative opportunity tomorrow. In the end, networking is just another word for community. It’s how we lift each other up. How we grow. How we give. And it’s happening all around you—if you learn to look for it. So the next time you go to an event—or to a dinner, a party, or any social gathering —don’t ask, “What can I get from here?” Ask instead: “How can I be of service?” That’s where real networking begins. Stay blessed 🙏🏼

Three Secrets of Networking: Do You Know? For a long time, I thought networking was about “working the room”—swapping cards, shaking hands, collecting contacts.  But over time, I learned that true networking is far deeper than just building a list of names. Here are three secrets that changed the way I approach networking and helped me build genuine, lasting relationships. ➡️ Lead with Generosity Early in my career, I met someone who taught me the power of giving before asking. I reached out to them for advice and they shared their time and insights with no expectations. This experience showed me that the best connections come when you lead with generosity. Now, when I meet someone new, I ask myself, “What can I offer them first?”—whether it’s sharing an idea, introducing them to someone, or just listening closely to what they need. ➡️ Don’t Overlook the “Weak Ties” Some of my most valuable connections came from the least likely sources—someone I met briefly while on a tour, a friend of a friend, or an old classmate I hadn’t spoken to in years. It’s these “weak ties” that often bring fresh perspectives or even career-shifting opportunities. Staying connected beyond your close circle doesn’t just widen your network but it opens up opportunities from unexpected corners of life. ➡️ Follow Up—Thoughtfully I’ll admit, I used to be terrible at follow-ups, thinking that a quick “nice to meet you” message was enough. But real relationships are built with intention. Now, when I meet someone, I make a point to send a thoughtful follow-up—a note on something we discussed, a link to an article they’d enjoy, or simply a “thank you” message for their time. This small effort not only keeps the door open for future conversations but also shows that I genuinely value the connection. Building a network of genuine relationships takes time, but in the end, these connections add real depth to our lives. What’s one networking tip that’s made a difference for you? #Networking #Linkedinforcreators

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜—𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜. A strong network isn’t built by handing out business cards, attending endless events, or adding thousands of LinkedIn connections. 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁 𝗯𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼. That means being: • 𝗨𝘀𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 – Do you bring insights, solutions, or connections that help others? • 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 – Are you open to sharing knowledge, making introductions, or supporting when it matters? • 𝗔𝗯𝗹𝗲 – Do you continuously build skills that make you an asset, not just an acquaintance? • 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗲 – Are your relationships built on sincerity, or just self-interest? The mistake many professionals make is thinking networking is about who they 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸. 𝗜𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺 𝗮𝘀 𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲. If people only hear from you when you need something, that’s not networking—that’s extraction. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝗽 𝗶𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂. The best networkers don’t just collect people. They contribute. And that’s why doors open for them. 𝗟𝗲𝘁’𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁.

Networking isn't just about making connections; it's about creating value for those in your network. A common mistake is to reach out to connections only when you need something. Instead, focus on contributing to your network first. Share useful content, offer help, and make introductions that benefit others. For example, when you connect with someone, research their role and challenges. Share relevant articles or insights that might help them. Ask, "How can I help you?" This simple question can go a long way in building trust and fostering meaningful relationships. Making introductions within your network can also be incredibly valuable and appreciated. Starting early and consistently offering value builds a solid foundation for your network. Your posts, thoughts, and advice not only enrich your connections but also position you as a valuable resource. By focusing on creating value first, you build stronger, more meaningful connections over time. What strategies have you used to provide value to your network? #Networking#ValueCreation #TechLeadership

"I hate networking." I hear this all the time. And I get it. The idea of walking up to strangers at events, making small talk, and asking for favors feels forced and uncomfortable. But here's the truth: networking doesn't have to feel like networking. Here's how to build genuine connections without being awkward: Start with warm connections. Don't cold message strangers on LinkedIn. Start with: → Former colleagues → Alumni from your school → Mutual contacts who can introduce you → People you've worked with before These conversations are easier because there's already a foundation. Lead with offering value, not asking for favors. Don't start with: "Can you help me find a job?" Start with: "I saw your post about [topic] and thought you might find this article interesting." Or: "Congratulations on your new role! I'd love to hear how it's going." Give first. Ask later. Use LinkedIn to build relationships before asking for anything. Don't send a connection request and immediately ask for something. Instead: → Engage with their posts (thoughtful comments, not just "Great post!") → Share their content when it's relevant → Send a message just to catch up, no agenda Build the relationship over time. When you do reach out, make it easy for them. Don't say: "Can I pick your brain?" Say: "I'd love to hear about your experience at [Company]. Would you be open to a 20-minute coffee chat? I'm happy to work around your schedule." Be specific about what you're asking for and respect their time. Schedule "informational coffee chats" instead of calling it networking. Reframe it in your mind. You're not networking. You're: → Learning from someone's experience → Having a conversation about your industry → Building a relationship with someone interesting Take the pressure off yourself. Follow up and stay in touch; don't just reach out when you need something. After the conversation: → Send a thank you note within 24 hours → Share an article or resource they might find useful → Check in every few months (congratulate them on wins, share updates) Stay on their radar in a genuine way. The best networking doesn't feel transactional. It feels like building real relationships with people you respect. And those relationships? They're the ones that actually lead to opportunities. Save this post so you're ready to network without the awkwardness.

New Insights on Networking Strategies for Female Executives The journey to the top for female executives often faces hurdles due to limited access to informal networks. But, a groundbreaking study led by Inga Carboni from William & Mary’s Mason School of Business unveils key strategies that successful women employ to build robust networks. **Efficiency: They're masters of time management, understanding that every 'yes' necessitates a 'no' elsewhere. Prioritization and streamlined communication are their allies. *Nimbleness: Instead of solely relying on existing connections, they forge new relationships aligned with their goals, ensuring adaptability in an ever-evolving landscape. **Boundary-spanning: They bridge divides, connecting across functions, geographies, and business units. This diversity in connections fuels innovation and fosters growth. ***Energy Balance: They blend competence with warmth, leveraging emotional intelligence to build trust and drive performance. These behaviours aren't just advantageous for individual career progression; they're essential for organizational success. #WomenInLeadership #NetworkingStrategies #CareerAdvancement #Innovation #DiversityAndInclusion

The Currency of Opportunity: How to Actually Network I talk about networking a lot. I believe it is the single most important factor in your pursuit of opportunity. But "networking" is a vague term. It’s time to move past the theory and talk about the execution. Here are five key elements to building a solid, professional network: -Sell trust before you sell yourself. Don't lead with an "ask." Share what you do, share a bit about who you are, and find common ground first. People do business with people they trust. Let them get to know the person before you ever mention the product or the resume. -Guard your digital reputation. On social media, stay clear of divisive issues. Using unprofessional language or complaining about problems outside of your control—especially without offering solutions—is the fastest way to remove yourself from serious consideration by serious organizations. You are your own brand. Your call. -Ask more, talk less. If you want to be the most interesting person in the room, be the most interested. Ask great questions and actually listen to the answers. It is human nature to want to feel appreciated; give people the space to share their story. -Be 100% present. Never, ever look at your phone when you are connecting with someone. Eye contact, posture, and tone all matter, but the second you check a notification, you’ve signaled that the person in front of you is secondary. Once they feel that, they’ve mentally checked out. -Close the loop. The "fortune is in the follow-up." If you meet someone, send a brief note within 24 hours. If you promised to send them an article or a contact, do it immediately. Most people are "one and done." Be the person who stays on the radar through consistent, low-pressure follow-ups. Building a network isn't about collecting business cards; it's about building an ecosystem of mutual respect. As Dale Carnegie famously wrote in How to Win Friends and Influence People: "You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you." Stop trying to be interesting. Start being interested.