Networking with Purpose: Aligning Goals and Connections

Networking without a why is just another meeting. I recently reconnected with someone I hadn’t talked to in years — and now, they’re a successful HR leader. What struck me wasn’t just how much they’ve grown, but how intentional our conversation felt. We weren’t just “catching up.” We both came into it with a why: to learn, to share, and to see where our paths might intersect again. That’s the part people often overlook about networking — it’s not about collecting contacts. It’s about creating connections with purpose. So before your next call or coffee chat, ask yourself: Why am I reaching out? What do I hope to give or gain? And if you’re not sure how to frame that, here are a few prompts you can use to guide follow-up conversations: 🔹 “I’d love to hear how you navigated [specific challenge/transition].” 🔹 “What skills or experiences have been most valuable in your career journey?” 🔹 “What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone who wants to grow in this field?” 🔹 “Are there ways I could add value to the work you’re doing?” 🔹 “Who else would you recommend I learn from or connect with?” Networking done well isn’t about having the perfect pitch — it’s about showing up with intention and leaving the other person better for having spent time with you. How do you prepare for your networking calls? Do you go in with a why, or do you keep it open-ended?

Aimless networking won’t get you an interview: If you’re reaching out to people with: ❌ “Hey, are you hiring?” ❌ “Can you refer me for a role?” ❌ “I need a job—can we chat?” Then, you’re doing it wrong. Networking isn’t about ASKING for a job. It’s about BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS that create opportunities. Here’s how to have networking conversations that actually lead to job interviews: 1️⃣ Start with Genuine Interest and Intention of Building the Relationship After some research on the connections, reach out with curiosity, not desperation. Example: “I admire your career path in [industry]. What are some challenges you’re seeing within this space?” 2️⃣ Focus on Their Experience People enjoy sharing their journey. Ask thoughtful questions: ✔ What expertise have you developed in this role? ✔ What are the 2 biggest challenges you’re working on now? ✔ What skills have been most valuable for finding workable solutions? 3️⃣ Share Your Value—Naturally Instead of asking for a job, share what you’ve been working on (or had success in) that is relatable. Example: “I’ve been leading [specific projects] and applying my expertise in [industry]. Sometimes that experience can be a solution to X (one of the challenges they mentioned). 4️⃣ End with a Soft Ask and offer to be a resource for them. Don’t force a referral—invite guidance. Example: “Based on what I’ve shared, who else in your network would be appropriate to be introduced to?” 5️⃣ Follow Up & Stay Visible Keep the relationship alive—send a thank-you note along with a resource for them. Engage with their content, and if you met with a person they referred,  update them on your progress. The best networking is an exchange. It’s strategic and relational. Networking can be challenging if you view it one way.  Make it mutual. Let me know in the comments if you agree that both parties need to benefit from networking conversations and how you prepare to make that happen.

GREAT news! You don't have to go to that After 5 cocktail mixer to be a good networker. The conventional wisdom says, "Go to the mixer, shake hands, exchange cards, and hope for the best." But is that really the best use of your time? As leaders, our time is one of our most valuable assets. Purposeful networking—strategically building relationships aligned with your goals—delivers far more value than general networking events ever could. Here’s why you should rethink those mixers: 🔑 Be Intentional: Focus on connecting with people who align with your business goals or personal development. 🤝 Deeper Relationships: Small, meaningful conversations trump rapid-fire introductions every time. 🕒 Maximized Time: Purposeful interactions lead to actionable insights, partnerships, or mentorship opportunities. 💡 Create Value: Approach networking with a mindset of giving—whether it’s advice, resources, or introductions. Skip the “see and be seen” events and invest your energy in thoughtful conversations that help you grow, learn, and lead better. 💭 What’s one purposeful networking strategy you’ve found valuable? Let’s share and learn together. #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #Careers #ExecutiveCareers #JobSearch