The Power of Networking: Building Connections That Last
Why networking still matters
Plenty of business now happens over video calls, but the relationships that lead to jobs, partnerships and investments still tend to start in person. A conference puts hundreds of people with shared interests in the same room for two days. That is a rare opportunity, and it is worth approaching with some intention.
Before the event
Look through the speaker list and the schedule, and pick three or four people you would genuinely like to meet. Read something they have written or watch a recent talk, so you have a real question ready. Then decide which sessions you will attend and where you might cross paths with them.
During the event
Most good conversations start with a simple question about the session you both just left. A few habits help:
- Listen more than you talk, and ask follow-up questions
- Keep your introduction to a sentence or two, and make it about the problem you work on
- Join the coffee line and the lunch tables, where conversations are easiest to start
- Write a quick note about each person on your phone right after you part ways
After the event
The follow-up is where most connections are won or lost. Send a short message within two days that mentions something specific from your conversation. If you promised an article, an introduction or a resource, include it. Keep it brief and don’t ask for anything big yet.
Playing the long game
A strong network is built over years, not over one coffee break. Check in now and then with something useful, congratulate people on their wins and make introductions when you can. The people you meet at Hugecon this November could be your collaborators for the next decade.
