Networking Without the Ick: How to Talk to People (Even If You Don’t Know What to Say)
- Heather Henderson
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 21
If networking makes you cringe—you’re not doing it wrong. You’re just doing it like everyone else.
🔍 TL;DR: Networking isn’t about being impressive. It’s about being interested.
You don’t have to fake confidence, name-drop, or ask for favors. The most unforgettable people? They’re curious, human, and consistent.
✨ Transformational Takeaways
✅ People remember how you made them feel—not just what you said.
✅ Good networking starts with curiosity, not a pitch.
✅ Following up is what builds trust (and your rep).
🔁 Break the Awkward: The 3 C’s of No-Cringe Networking
Let’s be honest—networking has a bad rep.
It often feels:
• Fake
• Forced
• Like you’re supposed to ask for something
But here’s the truth: Good networking doesn’t feel like networking. It feels like a real conversation—and it starts with three things:
1. Curiosity 🧠
Ask real questions. Show real interest. Drop the agenda.
This isn’t “What can you do for me?” It’s “How can I learn from you?”
💭 Try asking:
“What part of your work feels most like you?”
“What’s kept you at [company]?”
“What helped you feel confident when you were new here?”
“What do you wish you knew before joining this company?”
“What part of your job is most fun—or the most frustrating?”
“What’s one thing you’ve learned here that you didn’t expect?”
Why it matters: People light up when they talk about their story. And they remember the ones who made space for it.
2. Connection 🤝
No one wants to be a LinkedIn trophy. Make it real. Make it stick.
💡 After the convo, follow up with something meaningful:
“Thanks again—what you said about [topic] gave me a new way to think about [X].”
“I checked out that [tool/topic] you mentioned—so good.”
“Found an article that reminded me of our convo—thought you’d like it.”
Why it matters: This turns you from “that intern I talked to once” → “someone I want to help.”
3. Consistency 🔁
Most people follow up once. The smart ones? They follow through over time.
• Send a quick thank-you today
• DM them in a month with an update or reflection
• Reconnect when something relevant pops up
Why it matters: Reputation is built in the follow-up. And consistency = credibility.
📓 Journal Jam
Who’s one person I’ve met recently that I could actually learn something from?
What’s one question I could ask that doesn’t sound rehearsed?
Who did I vibe with—but never messaged again?
🌀 You’re Not the Only One
“I tried to sound impressive… but I could tell I lost them halfway through.”
“I thought sharing my story would build a connection—but it just felt one-sided.”
“I walked away replaying everything I said—wondering if I came off like I was trying too hard.”
🤔 Networking FAQs
Q: What do I say if I don’t have anything to ask?
Start with curiosity. Ask about their journey, their challenges, or what surprised them. People love being asked for their perspective.
Q: How do I follow up without being annoying?
Make it thoughtful. Reference what they shared, or send a quick update. It’s not about frequency—it’s about relevance.
Q: Do I have to network to get hired?
You don’t need to network with everyone. But building a few real relationships can make the difference between being seen… and being remembered.
📲 Mindset Saver
You don’t need to pitch. You need to connect.
→ Pick one question that feels natural—and ask it like a human, not a headline.
That’s how real conversations start.
💬 Stay Unmuted
Forget being impressive. Be someone they don’t forget.
✨ What’s one networking move you’re trying this week—Curiosity, Connection, or Consistency?
→ DM me @iamheatherh or tag #UnmutedU to join the convo.
Comments