Networking Tips

The purpose of networking is to build mutually beneficial relationships, not to chase quick fixes or one‑sided favors. In groups like The Financial Executives Networking Group (FENG), where members are senior leaders with deep experience, the most successful networkers are those who show up prepared to give as much as they receive.

What Networking Really Means

Helping others first

Effective networking starts with a simple question: “How can I help?” Whether you are sharing an introduction, reviewing a résumé, or offering a fresh perspective on a business challenge, you are demonstrating that you are a resource, not just a requester.

Understanding their needs before you share yours

Ask open‑ended questions and then listen carefully to the answers. When you understand someone’s priorities, pressures, and goals, you can tailor your support and your story in a way that is relevant and memorable.

Setting Realistic Expectations

It’s about real connections, not headcount

A large contact list is not the same as a strong network. One thoughtful conversation that builds trust is more valuable than a dozen quick exchanges that never progress beyond small talk.

Focus on what you can do for others

Ask yourself, “What skills, experience, or contacts can I offer this person or this group?” When you consistently provide value, people remember you, talk about you, and are more inclined to help when you eventually need support.

Reaching Out to Someone New

Begin with a conversation, not a request

When contacting someone for the first time—especially in a group like FENG—start by expressing genuine interest in their background, their chapter, or their current role. A short, authentic conversation builds rapport and makes any later request feel natural rather than transactional.

Be clear about the time you’re asking for

Respect is reflected in how you structure the interaction. For example: “Would you have 15 minutes for a brief call next week? I’d like to hear how you navigated your last transition and get your perspective on two specific questions.” When people know the time commitment, they are more likely to say yes and more focused when they do.

Building Strong Relationships

Always be friendly and helpful

People gravitate toward those who are approachable and positive, especially in peer‑to‑peer networks of senior executives. A warm greeting at a meeting, a quick note of congratulations on a new role, or an encouraging comment on a LinkedIn post all contribute to a reputation as someone others want in their circle.

Provide value through introductions

One of the most powerful gifts you can offer is access to your own network. If you know two people who could benefit from knowing each other—a recruiter and a job seeker, a lender and a CFO, a consultant and a company facing a challenge—offer to connect them, with permission, and provide a brief context so the conversation can start smoothly.

Making Networking a Habit

Reach out to one person every day

Consistency turns networking from a task into a professional habit. A daily touchpoint might be a short email, a comment on a post, a check‑in call, or a quick note to someone you met at a recent FENG meeting. Over a month or a year, these “small touches” add up to a robust, active network.

Always follow up

After an event, meeting, or one‑on‑one conversation, send a brief follow‑up within 24–48 hours. Thank the person for their time, reference something specific you discussed, and, when appropriate, suggest a next step—sharing an article, scheduling a follow‑up, or making an introduction you promised. Following up signals reliability and professionalism.

Bringing It All Together

Networking is about helping people

The heart of networking is service. When you approach each interaction with the intention of making the other person’s day, job, or search a little easier, you stand out in any professional community, including FENG.

Networking is about listening

Listening is your most powerful networking skill. When people feel heard and understood, they are far more likely to open up, share information, and recommend you to others.

Remember: Networking is real work

Clicking “send” on an email or connection request is the beginning, not the end. Real networking requires preparation, purposeful conversation, thoughtful follow‑up, and a willingness to invest time without expecting an immediate return.

I never leave the house without my make‑up on and business cards in my pocket. That is more than a lighthearted remark; it is a reminder to be prepared, present, and ready for opportunity every time you walk out the door.