Love the One You're With: A Practical Guide to Networking Without the Awkwardness

Most professionals hate networking. It feels forced, transactional, and uncomfortable—especially when job searching. But here's the truth: networking isn't about using people. It's about nurturing relationships.

For professionals over 40, up to 70% of jobs come through networking, and senior-level positions are rarely posted publicly. Your next opportunity will likely come from someone you know. Here's how to network without the awkwardness.

Start With People Who Already Like You

The easiest networking happens with people who already know your value. This month, commit to reconnecting with five former colleagues, classmates, or professional contacts. Not sure what to say? Try these openers:

"I was thinking about our time at [Company] and wondered how you've been. What are you working on these days?"

"I saw your post about [topic] on LinkedIn—I'd love to hear more about how that project turned out."

"It's been too long since we caught up. Would you have 20 minutes for a coffee chat (virtual or in-person) sometime this month?"

Notice what's missing? Any mention of your job search. Lead with genuine interest. People can smell an agenda from a mile away, but they respond warmly to authentic curiosity.

Start With The 15-Minute Daily LinkedIn Strategy

Spend just 15 minutes a day on LinkedIn:

1. Comment meaningfully on 2-3 posts from your network. Not "Great post!" but something substantive: "This resonates with my experience at [Company]. We found that..." This keeps you visible and demonstrates your expertise.

2. Send one personalized connection request to someone in your industry. Mention why you're connecting.

3. Share valuable content once a week—an industry article, a lesson learned, or professional insight.

Consistency beats intensity. Fifteen minutes daily builds more relationships than desperate bursts when you need something.

Reframe the Ask

Here's what makes networking feel awful: waiting until you need a job, then asking people for help. Here's what works: building relationships now so that when opportunities arise, people think of you naturally.

Instead of: "Do you know of any openings?"

Try: "I'm exploring opportunities in [field/role]. If you hear of anything that might be a fit, I'd appreciate you keeping me in mind."

Better yet: "I'm focusing on [specific type of role] and would value your perspective on the market right now. Would you have 15 minutes to chat?"

You're not asking for a job. You're asking for insight, advice, or a perspective—something most people are happy to give.

Attend One Event This Month

Professional associations, alumni groups, and industry meetups are networking gold. Commit to one event in February—virtual counts.

Your goal: have two quality conversations. Ask about their work, challenges, and industry trends. Exchange contact information and follow up within 48 hours: "Really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Let's stay in touch."

Give Before You Get

The secret to comfortable networking? Become a connector. Make introductions between people in your network. Share job postings that aren't right for you but perfect for someone else. Offer your expertise freely.

When you focus on being helpful rather than getting help, networking stops feeling transactional. People remember generosity.

Your February Challenge

This month, commit to:

• Reconnecting with 5 people from your past

• Spending 15 minutes daily on LinkedIn

• Attending one professional event

• Making one introduction that helps someone else

Relationships take time, but they're the foundation of every successful career transition. This Valentine's season, invest in your professional network—not because you need something today, but because strong relationships are always worth cultivating.

The job you want might be one conversation away. Start building that bridge now.