It’s a new year, which means a lot of people are dusting off their calendars, joining new groups, attending more events, and telling themselves this will be the year networking finally pays off.
And yet…
If you’re doing a lot of networking but not seeing the results you want, like referrals, relationships, opportunities and connections, it may be time for a tough (but empowering) question:
Could it be you?
Networking works. I’ve built businesses, communities, and decades-long relationships because of it. But networking without intention, attention, self-awareness, and follow-through is just socializing with business cards.
If you want better networking results this year, start now. Here are five practical, no-fluff shifts that will dramatically improve your outcomes.
1. Stop “Showing Up” and Start Showing Intention
Walking into a networking event without a clear purpose is like opening your laptop and hoping a strategy appears.
Before every event, ask yourself:
- Who would I genuinely like to meet?
- What kind of connection am I hoping to make?
- How can I be useful to others in the room or on the Zoom?
Networking with intention doesn’t mean pitching but it does mean being present. When you know why you’re there, your conversations are sharper, more confident, and more memorable.
2. Talk Less About What You Do and More About Why It Matters
If your intro sounds like a résumé, you’re losing people.
Most professionals explain what they do. Very few explain why it matters or who they help. That’s where connection lives.
Instead of:
“I’m a consultant / agent / coach / designer…”
Try:
“I help people solve ___ so they can ___.”
People remember stories, outcomes, and emotions, not titles.
3. Follow Up Like a Human, Not a CRM
This is where most networking efforts die.
A generic:
“Great meeting you, let’s stay in touch” does nothing
Real follow-up references the actual conversation. It might include an article, an introduction, or simply a thoughtful note that proves you were listening.
Consistency beats volume every time. A few meaningful follow-ups will outperform dozens of shallow connections.
4. Be a Connector Before You Ask for Anything
The fastest way to become valuable in any network is simply connect people without expecting immediate return.
Introduce two people who should know each other.
Share a resource.
Spotlight someone else’s work.
When you become known as a giver, opportunities come back and often from unexpected directions.
Networking is a long game. Play it generously.
5. Evaluate Your Energy and Your Expectations
If you walk into networking events resentful, desperate, impatient, or transactional, people feel it. Energy matters.
Networking isn’t a vending machine where you put in attendance and expect referrals to drop out.
Ask yourself:
- Am I building relationships or chasing outcomes?
- Am I curious or just waiting to talk?
- Am I consistent or only networking when business feels slow?
Honest reflection changes everything.
Key Takeaways
- Networking without intention leads to frustration
- Clarity beats quantity every time
- Follow-up is where trust is built
- Giving creates momentum
- Your mindset is part of your strategy
If networking hasn’t been working for you, don’t quit, refine. Small behavioral shifts can create massive results over time.
And if you want to talk through your networking approach, messaging, or strategy for the year ahead, I’m always game for a real conversation.
Start now. Your networking success depends on it.