The Art of Networking: Connections That Turn Into True Friendships

Introduction

Networking. The word alone can feel transactional, like a game of collecting LinkedIn connections and swapping business cards and firm-handshakes at events. You definitely are a master of that game.
But what if I told you that networking, when done right, isn’t just about career moves or business deals? What if it’s about something deeper; genuine human connections that turn into true friendships?

More Than Just a Handshake

I’m imagining you attending a network event. You go prepared with a mental list of influential people you have to meet, thinking that the more connections you made, the more opportunities would follow. You walk in with a stack of business cards and a rehearsed elevator pitch, ready to impress. Hm! Fast forward… the event comes to a close. As you sit to reflect, you find yourself stuck in shallow conversations, polite nods, forced smiles and the inevitable, “So what do you do?”

Beyond the Business Card

Too often, we treat networking as a strategy, something to be optimized and executed. But when we focus solely on career gains, we miss out on the most important aspect: human connection. Most people approach networking with a "What can I get?" mindset. But the strongest connections are built on "What can I give?" When you shift from a transactional approach to a relational one, everything changes. You start seeing people, not just as stepping stones to an opportunity, but as individuals with stories, challenges, and dreams.

Think about it. Some of the best business partnerships, collaborations, and even life-changing opportunities don’t come from a calculated exchange of business cards. They come from relationships built on trust, shared values, and mutual respect.

So, how do you make networking more meaningful?

1. Be Authentic – People can sense when you're being fake. Drop the robotic elevator pitch and be yourself. People are drawn to authenticity, not rehearsed perfection. Instead of trying to impress, aim to connect. Share your real experiences, even the challenges you’ve faced. Vulnerability builds trust. 
2. Listen More Than You Talk – Networking isn’t just about making yourself known; it’s about understanding others. Ask thoughtful questions and genuinely listen. You’d be surprised how much people appreciate a good listener.
3. Find Common Ground – Some of the best friendships are formed over shared interests, not just shared industries. I always tell my friend that, you can’t have meaningful conversations or relationships with someone if you don’t share common interests. Whether it’s a love for football, a favorite book, music or a mutual frustration about slow internet, anything! Common ground creates stronger bonds. The more human the connection, the stronger the relationship.
4. Follow Up with Intent – A quick "Nice to meet you!" message isn’t enough. Build the relationship. Check in, share valuable resources, and support their work when possible.
5. Be There Beyond Work – True friendships aren’t just about career growth. Celebrate their wins, offer a listening ear during tough times, and be there even when there’s nothing to gain.

The Unexpected Gift of Networking

Some of the most unexpected friendships come from networking moments we don’t even realize are important at the time. A casual chat, a shared joke, or a spontaneous act of kindness can lead to something much greater than a simple business connection.

We often underestimate the power of human connection in professional settings. But the reality is, the best opportunities in life, both personal and professional, come from the relationships we nurture. When you approach networking with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to truly connect, you’ll find that what starts as a handshake can turn into a bond that lasts a lifetime.

So, the next time you walk into a networking event, open a LinkedIn message, or join a professional group, remember this: the best connections aren’t the ones that get you a job - they’re the ones that enrich your life.

True networking isn’t about building a list of contacts. It’s about finding your people. And when you do, you’ll realize that some of the most valuable friendships start with nothing more than a simple conversation.