[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” transform_translate=”-6px|-77px” width=”90%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px|||” module_alignment_tablet=”center” module_alignment_phone=”center” module_alignment_last_edited=”on|phone” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/wbf.wobi.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/wm_img_entradas_blog_networking-min-scaled.webp” title_text=”wm_img_entradas_blog_networking-min” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”12px” text_line_height=”1.8em” background_color=”#ffe37e” positioning=”absolute” position_origin_a=”bottom_left” vertical_offset=”8px” horizontal_offset=”8px” text_orientation=”center” width=”16%” width_tablet=”16%” width_phone=”40%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” border_radii=”on|50px|50px|50px|50px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Article<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”12px” text_line_height=”1.8em” background_color=”#ffe37e” transform_translate=”132px|0px” positioning=”absolute” position_origin_a=”bottom_left” vertical_offset=”8px” horizontal_offset=”8px” text_orientation=”center” width=”16%” width_tablet=”16%” width_phone=”40%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” border_radii=”on|50px|50px|50px|50px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Networking<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”95%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” module_alignment=”left” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” module_alignment_tablet=”left” module_alignment_phone=”center” module_alignment_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_font=”Montserrat||||||||” header_text_align=”left” header_text_color=”#000000″ header_font_size=”45px” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”20px|0px|20px|0px|true|false” header_font_size_tablet=”45px” header_font_size_phone=”29px” header_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” width_tablet=”” width_phone=”95%” width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”||0px||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” module_alignment_tablet=”” module_alignment_phone=”center” module_alignment_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” width=”90%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
In today\u2019s world, true business connections aren\u2019t just nice to have\u2014they\u2019re your competitive advantage. But real networking isn\u2019t about collecting contacts. It\u2019s about building trust, exchanging value, and turning simple conversations into long-term relationships and therefore, two-way opportunities. It\u2019s how we create communities where ideas flow, collaborations spark, and people feel part of something bigger than themselves. Whether you\u2019re attending a major business forum, joining an internal meeting, or connecting online, this guide will help you show up with purpose, break the ice with confidence, and turn first conversations into lasting relationships.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” width=”90%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_color_right=”rgba(0,0,0,0.13)” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Networking is one of the fastest ways to expand your perspective and unlock new opportunities in the most unexpected and serendipitous ways, driving both personal and business growth. Every conversation you (or others) start is a chance to connect with different industries, roles, and ideas\u2014often sparking innovations, partnerships, or insights you never expected. In fact, research from Harvard Business Review<\/a> <\/span><\/strong><\/span>shows that people with stronger networks tend to achieve higher salaries, more promotions, and greater career success.[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n Additionally, it\u2019s through these connections that we build communities\u2014inside our companies, across industries, and around shared interests. Communities that don\u2019t just open doors for individuals, but also accelerate learning, foster collaboration, and amplify collective impact.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n But the value goes beyond professional outcomes. Reaching out, introducing yourself, and listening with genuine curiosity builds your confidence, empathy, and communication skills. It helps you overcome hesitation, strengthen your leadership presence, and expand your impact. Whether online or in person, networking is one of the most powerful ways to grow\u2014not just your network, but yourself.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n Before you can build new connections, you need to be clear about the value you offer. Take time to reflect on three essential elements:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n Once you\u2019re clear on these points, prepare a short, authentic story that brings them to life. Skip the rehearsed elevator pitch. Instead, share a quick example of how you\u2019ve helped someone or learned something meaningful. Stories are memorable\u2014they show who you are and what you bring to the table.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n You only get one chance to make a first impression, and it starts before you even speak. <\/span>Studies<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span>\u00a0have shown that first impressions are formed rapidly\u2014often within milliseconds\u2014and tend to persist over time, even in the face of new information. A few tips to make a positive one include:<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n As writer, singer and activist Maya Angelou said, \u201cPeople will forget what you said and what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.\u201d So make every interaction count. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”50px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||1px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” custom_margin__hover=”||0px||false|false”]<\/span><\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re looking for new clients, potential collaborators, market insights, or simply fresh ideas, clarity is your best starting point. Take time to ask yourself: \u201cWhat do I want to achieve by being here?\u201d Defining your goals in advance will help you focus your energy, make smarter decisions, and prioritize your time when it\u2019s limited.<\/span><\/p>\n Once your goals are clear, do your homework on who will be there. For instance, in the Networking<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/span> section the WOBI App<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/span> you can search for people with similar interests and connect with them before the event. Take advantage of this tool to identify the people you\u2019d like to meet. Update your profile to reflect what you\u2019re looking for and what you can offer in return, and start connecting through the Matching<\/a> <\/strong><\/span><\/span>section. Then, take the first step: send personalized meeting requests or messages in advance. This turns cold introductions into warmer, more meaningful conversations when you meet in person. [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/wbf.wobi.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/App-networking-min.webp” title_text=”App networking-min” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” width=”36%” custom_margin=”30px||30px||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n While planning is important, don\u2019t over-engineer your schedule. Leave room for spontaneous encounters\u2014the kind that happen in line for coffee, between sessions, or during informal networking moments. Sometimes, these unexpected conversations turn out to be the most valuable of all.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”- PRO TIP” portrait_url=”data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iNTAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjUwMCIgdmlld0JveD0iMCAwIDUwMCA1MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+CiAgICA8ZyBmaWxsPSJub25lIiBmaWxsLXJ1bGU9ImV2ZW5vZGQiPgogICAgICAgIDxwYXRoIGZpbGw9IiNFQkVCRUIiIGQ9Ik0wIDBoNTAwdjUwMEgweiIvPgogICAgICAgIDxyZWN0IGZpbGwtb3BhY2l0eT0iLjEiIGZpbGw9IiMwMDAiIHg9IjY4IiB5PSIzMDUiIHdpZHRoPSIzNjQiIGhlaWdodD0iNTY4IiByeD0iMTgyIi8+CiAgICAgICAgPGNpcmNsZSBmaWxsLW9wYWNpdHk9Ii4xIiBmaWxsPSIjMDAwIiBjeD0iMjQ5IiBjeT0iMTcyIiByPSIxMDAiLz4KICAgIDwvZz4KPC9zdmc+Cg==” portrait_width=”1px” portrait_height=”1px” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” body_font=”Abyssinica SIL|900|||||||” body_text_color=”#5e97b2″ body_font_size=”23px” author_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” author_text_align=”center” position_font=”Abhaya Libre||||||||” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” body_font_size_tablet=”23px” body_font_size_phone=”15px” body_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” author_font_size_tablet=”” author_font_size_phone=”14px” author_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n You can also increase your visibility by sharing that you\u2019ll be attending on social media. A simple post about what you\u2019re looking forward to or a question to spark engagement can invite new opportunities to come to you before the event even begins.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”50px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||1px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” custom_margin__hover=”||0px||false|false”]<\/span><\/p>\n It\u2019s normal to feel awkward about starting a conversation or introducing yourself to someone new. But what separates great networkers is their ability to push through that discomfort\u2014whether in person or online. The key is to:<\/span><\/p>\n And here\u2019s something many people forget: you don\u2019t have to connect with everyone. Part of effective networking is recognizing that not every conversation will lead to a perfect match\u2014and that\u2019s okay. The goal isn\u2019t to be liked by everyone, but to find the right people with whom you can build meaningful, mutually beneficial connections.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”50px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||1px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin__hover_enabled=”on|desktop” custom_margin__hover=”||0px||false|false”]<\/span><\/p>\n Ditch the boring \u201cWhat do you do?\u201d and try more engaging questions like:<\/span><\/p>\n The best conversations happen when you focus on the other person. Listen actively, ask follow-up questions, and show genuine interest. A simple mindset shift\u2014from \u201cWhat can I get?\u201d to \u201cWhat can I learn?\u201d\u2014can transform your networking experience.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_class=”fade-in” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Montserrat||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” header_3_font=”Montserrat|700|||||||” header_3_text_align=”center” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” custom_margin=”20px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/span><\/p>\n In her article A Better Approach to Networking<\/strong><\/span><\/a>, Christie Hunter Arscott suggests shifting from transactional questions to ones that invite people to share their story, such as:<\/span><\/p>\nWhy Network in the First Place? The Benefits of Building Real Connections<\/h3>\n
It All Starts With You: How to Prepare to Add Value and Lead the Conversation<\/h3>\n
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First Impressions Matter<\/h3>\n
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Set Clear Goals and Do Your Homework<\/h3>\n
\n<\/span><\/p>\nHow to Break the Ice and Start Conversations<\/h3>\n
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Conversation Starters That Work (And Those That Don\u2019t)<\/h3>\n
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