Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward or transactional. At its core, it’s about creating meaningful connections that open doors—not just asking for favors. In today’s job market, many opportunities, especially unposted ones, come from the people you already know or could get to know with a simple message.

If the idea of reaching out feels intimidating, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down into actionable steps that make networking easier, more effective, and even enjoyable.

Why Networking Isn’t Asking for Help
A client once hesitated to send a message because they didn’t want to “bother” someone. They reframed their mindset after realizing that networking isn’t about asking—it’s about connecting. When they finally sent a message like, “I admire your work and would love to learn about your career path,” it led to a genuine conversation. That one conversation turned into a referral for an...