Networking 101

Do build relationships. Don’t Collect Contacts.
Networking isn’t about stacking business cards, LinkedIn connections, or followers on social media. People tend to remember consistency, good energy, reliability, and the our good old faithful value. 

Do lead with value. Don’t lead with asks.
Meeting someone then immediately asking for a favor never lands well. Just imagine someone doing that to you.  Before asking for something, first help where you can.  Share opportunities, make introductions, send or share useful information, support their work.  There is a long list of things you can do to provide value before making an ask.  Value first. Opportunity later.

Do Follow Up. Don’t Disappear.
This is a big one. Most people never follow up.  This one right here is low hanging fruit.  Since most people don’t follow up, this is an easy way to stand out.  It doesn’t have to be a lot either.  A simple “great meeting you” or “appreciate the conversation” goes a long way.  This isn’t all you need to do, but it’s definitely a good start.  Networking is rarely won in one interaction, it compounds through repeated contact.

Do Be Genuinely Interested. Don’t Fake Curiosity.
People in general seem to have a sixth sense for forced interactions.  So instead of trying to sound impressive, focus on trying to learn.  Ask thoughtful questions, listen carefully, and understand what really matters to the other people you’re networking with.  Good networking makes people feel seen and not used.

Do Focus On Long-Term Relationships. Don’t Focus Only On Immediate Gain.
A connection that does nothing for you today can be a life changer 5 years from now.  Always play the long game.  In theory you want to grow with your network, as you’re leveling up, so are they.  Just like you can make great strides in 5 years, so can they, and there’s no telling what position they’ll be in in the future. 

Do Network Before You Need Something. Don’t Wait Until You’re Desperate.
The worst time to start networking is when you need a job, need money, or need urgent help.  Yes they may help but it may taint your perception in the process, or worse it may burn a bridge.  Strong networks are built before pressure exists.  Those relationships that are built during a crisis always feel and seem transactional.

Do Protect Your Reputation. Don’t Burn Bridges Carelessly.
Your reputation often precedes you.  People talk and different industries are smaller than they appear. With that in mind some things to be wary about are gossip, arrogance, entitlement, inconsistency, or disrespecting assistants, interns, or anyone in general. Opportunities come from the most unlikely and unexpected places.

Do Stay Visible. Don’t Become Forgettable.
This one is a little new for me, but it’s vital in 2026.  As much as we may want to fight it (especially us OG Millennials), visibility matters.  So post your work. Share ideas.  Stay active in different social circles.  Check in periodically.  If nobody sees you the assumption is often that you stopped moving (as crazy as that sounds).  This is especially true in business, media, sports, and entrepreneurship.

Do Respect People’s Time. Don’t Overtalk Or Overstay.
Good networking conversations feel light, natural, and efficient. No extra fluff.  A few strong minutes is better than forcing an hour long conversation.  Know when to leave the room, know when to end the call, know when to stop pitching, and most of all,know when to stop talking.

Do Become Someone Worth Networking With. Don’t Rely Only On Charm.
Your number one networking strategy is to be actually good at something.  You don’t want to be that person that’s all talk.  Competence tends to attract people naturally.  Keep that in the front of your mind.  So while you’re improving your networking skills remember to also build skills, build discipline, build credibility, be consistent, and deliver results. Networking is what opens doors, but value is what keeps them open.