How to network when you hate networking

Networking feels gross when you treat it as using people. It feels good when you treat it as meeting people and being helpful. Same room, completely different experience.

Go in to learn, not to sell

Take the pressure off by making your only goal to have a couple of interesting conversations. Curiosity is magnetic, and it is a role you can actually enjoy.

"What are you working on that you are actually excited about right now?"

Be useful before you are needy

The best networkers give first. An introduction, an article, a genuine compliment on their work. People remember who was helpful, and helping is far more comfortable than asking.

Quality over quantity

You do not need to work the whole room. Two real conversations beat twenty business cards. Depth is what turns a contact into a relationship.

Have an easy follow-up

The value is in the follow-up, not the event. A short, specific message the next day keeps it alive.

"Great talking about [topic]. You mentioned [thing], here is the article I promised. Would love to stay in touch."