How do you strategically network without wasting time?

In my experience too many people approach this from a “what’s in it for me” mentality. That’s wrong in my view. Always approach it from an open heart and giving perspective, be yourself, be open about your journey and connect on a personal level. People do business with people and we need to remember this. If you do this then you’ll be much happier and happiness attracts success, in my experience.

My experience of networking has never been focus on short term goals, but to circulate, listen and store what you learn. My most valuable results from networking have always been the yet unknown problem I would have to solve, that I’d already forged connections with the knowledge, expertise and experience to guide me… on many occasions by linking up other people in my network.

Before diving into networking, defining clear goals is essential. I remember when I started attending events, I’d just mingle without direction, wasting time on conversations that led nowhere. It wasn't until I set specific goals—like finding a mentor in my industry and connecting with potential collaborators—that my networking became strategic. I knew exactly what kind of people I needed to approach. This focus not only saved time but also led to more productive relationships. Whether you're seeking feedback, learning a new skill, or landing a client, having a goal sharpens your approach and makes networking efficient.

It is quality over quantity. Identify key people or groups that align with your goals or industry, and prioritize building meaningful relationships with them. Attend relevant events or join online communities where these people are active. When connecting, be clear about your intentions and offer value by sharing knowledge or insights. Follow up with those who can provide mutual benefit, and stay engaged over time.

Strategic networking is all about focusing on quality, not quantity. Identify key individuals who align with your goals and offer mutual value. Be intentional in your approach by understanding what you can give before seeking to gain. Engage with purpose...whether it’s attending events, joining discussions, or reaching out online—make every interaction meaningful and seek to add value. Follow up with personalized value to strengthen connections. By being selective and purpose-driven, you maximize your networking efforts and avoid wasting time on connections that don’t propel you forward.

arget your connections by focusing on individuals relevant to your field or goals, such as decision-makers or thought leaders. Regularly engage with relevant content by commenting on posts, sharing insights, and contributing value to conversations. Finally, use personalized messages when reaching out to new connections, demonstrating genuine interest rather than generic outreach. This ensures focused, meaningful interactions.

To network strategically, start by defining your goals. Know exactly what you want to achieve—whether it's finding a mentor, a collaborator, a client, or learning something new. Having a clear and realistic goal helps you focus on the right people and avoid wasting time on irrelevant or unproductive connections.

Don't network for just for the sake of networking. Before reaching out to someone, ask yourself this question: "What is it about this person that peaks my curiosity? If you can answer that, you're on the right track.

Go to events the people you want to network with will be attending. This presents an in person opportunity to meet for the first time. Also consider who influences the people you want to influence - figuring out how to become part of that environment will pay huge dividends for connecting with the audience you are looking to reach!

If it's online. Take 10 minutes to look at their LinkedIn profile. If it's an in-person networking event, do the same thing. Research for networking doesn't have to be complicated.

Why over complicate such an easy process of networking? Choose the events according to your target market. Make a good impression. Get them excited about how you can help them. Then touch base with them a day or two after. Taking them out to the after party will make a stronger impression.

I believe the best way to get in contact is by a personal introduction. LinkedIn allows you to see your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree connections, so you can quickly identify if someone in your network is connected to a person you’d like an introduction to. This visibility can help you approach a mutual contact to facilitate a personal introduction. Take action and ask your connections for an introduction!

I have experienced that I have a tendency to sometimes sink deep into conversation with someone interesting at a network event. Sometimes someone that most likely don't fit my target group too. So being mindful of your limited time during an event is crucial. If it's an hour - I'd try to swap within 5 minutes if it's a cold talk and 10 with a person that seem able to give warm leads. Keep the plunge down in a deeper conversation. Move on smoothly by asking for their details and if a warm lead tell you will follow up - and keep to it. This way you manage to make the best of the limited time. Accept that you won't be able to reach all people in a room. You need some quality interaction to made difference both for them and you.

Don't make it difficult. Take action and ask your connections for an introduction! What also helps for your visibility is to Comment and Like posts on LinkedIn of the people you want to do business with or get in contact with. People see more than we think and it's also a nice way of support.

Consistent follow-up and follow-through are essential for nurturing a strong network. Staying in regular contact is key to building lasting professional relationships. A great way to support your network and increase mutual visibility is by engaging with their LinkedIn posts. Thoughtful comments on their updates not only show your support but also help boost both their presence and your own on the LinkedIn platform.

Make it a weekly task and take 10, 20, 50 or 100 contacts and stay in touch. You can call, message them but there are so many different ways. Make a list of people every week and take action!

Set up notifications for social media profiles so you can make meaningful comments when they post updates. You can also set up Google Alerts for their business and their name.

Meiner Meinung nach hilft es sichtbar zu sein. Lassen sie die Kontakte, auf sie zukommen. Das sind oft die wertvollsten Kontakte, weil sie aus eigenem Antrieb herauskommen.