You don’t need to go to more events. You just need to show up a little differently.
If you’re like most busy professionals, “networking” sounds exhausting.
You’re already buried in work.
You barely have time for coffee, let alone cocktail hours.
You don’t want to fake small talk or collect business cards you’ll never use.
Good news: You don’t have to.
Networking doesn’t have to be a separate activity.
It can be something you naturally build into your day — without changing your calendar or your personality.
Here’s how to do it without really trying:
Answer One Extra Email a Week
That vendor who sent you a note 3 months ago?
The client you haven’t heard from in a while?
Reply. Check in. Ask how they’re doing.
You don’t need a reason or an ask — just keep the connection warm.
One extra reply a week = 52 stronger connections a year.
Add a “PS” to Your Messages
You’re already emailing clients, coworkers, and colleagues.
Try this:
PS — Let me know if you’re ever free to grab coffee. I always like to stay connected.”
It’s easy. It’s natural. And it opens the door without pressure.
Talk to One New Person a Month
You don’t need to go to every networking event. Just try this:
Say hi to someone new at a meeting.
Introduce yourself to someone in your industry online.
Ask a client who else they think you should meet.
One new person a month is 12 new relationships a year — without changing your routine.
Give a Small Referral.
Networking isn’t just about what you get — it’s what you give.
Mention a client’s business to someone.
Share a colleague’s service on LinkedIn.
Introduce two people who might help each other.
It takes 60 seconds. And people remember who sent opportunity their way.
Just Show Up Differently
When you do go to meetings or events — even if they’re virtual — try this:
Be the first to say hello.
Remember one thing someone says and follow up later.
Don’t pitch — just connect.
That’s real networking. And it makes people want to talk to you again.
Next Steps
You don’t need a stack of business cards.
You don’t need a networking strategy.
You just need to be a little more intentional with what you’re already doing.
Start with one action a week.
One message.
One follow-up.
One person helped.
One relationship strengthened.
That’s networking — the simple way.