Networking can feel intimidating, especially if you are starting your career or stepping into a new industry. The good news is that networking is a learned skill, not an innate talent. With some preparation and practice, you can carve out your own space, build a strong community, and create connections that support your long-term career success.
It is also worth remembering one powerful fact: an estimated 65% to 85% of jobs are never publicly advertised. Many opportunities are shared through referrals, recommendations, and informal conversations. Your network truly matters.
Before you start: Shake out the Jitters
Networking is not easy for everyone, and it is completely normal to feel nervous. The important thing is that you are taking steps to put yourself out there and recognize how valuable relationships can be for your career.
Before an event, try:
- Thinking about a few topics or questions you can use to start a conversation
- Looking into the event to see who will be there and what they do
- Practicing introductions with friends or classmates
- Arriving early so you can get comfortable with the space
- Bringing a colleague so you have a familiar face in the room
Build a Solid Network
Being able to make connections and build a solid network is a skill that is undertaught and often undervalued.
Don’t feel like you’re a pro? That’s okay. Here are 10 networking tips to help you feel confident carving your space and building a community to bolster your career success.
1. Prepare
Start with your purpose. Think about your career goals and the industries or roles you want to learn more about. When you are clear on what you want, it becomes much easier to choose events, identify who you want to meet and ask thoughtful questions.
Work on a short elevator pitch that introduces who you are, what you do and what you are interested in. Aim for about 30 seconds. This helps you communicate clearly and confidently when meeting new people.
2. Be Authentic
Networking is about finding your network, not fitting into someone else’s idea of success.
Be yourself. When you are genuine about your interests, strengths, and goals, you naturally attract people and opportunities that fit you. Authenticity makes conversations more meaningful and helps build trust.
3. Put Connections First
Approach each conversation with the person in front of you as your main focus.
Rather than entering a discussion with a hidden agenda or expecting something in return, treat networking as a chance to connect and learn. Ask questions, listen carefully, and be curious. When relationships come first, opportunities tend to follow.
4. Quality Over Quantity
Networking is not about collecting as many business cards or LinkedIn connections as possible. It is better to have a smaller number of strong, genuine relationships than a long list of people who barely remember you.
Take your time in conversations. Aim for depth instead of trying to meet everyone in the room.
5. Leverage Your Existing Networks
You likely have more connections than you think. Past professors, supervisors, colleagues, and classmates can all be gateways to new introductions.
Reach out and let them know what you are exploring. Many people are happy to help with an email introduction or a referral.
If you are a CPA or aspiring CPA, connect with your regional CPA body. It is a built-in community of professionals who share similar goals and can point you toward events, mentors, and opportunities.
6. Maintain Professionalism
You do not need to be stiff or overly formal but remember that networking events are still professional spaces.
Consider:
- Dressing appropriately for the setting
- Choosing conversation topics that are suitable for a work context
- Being respectful with your time and others’ time
For online events, be mindful of your background. If you do not have a professional space, consider using a simple virtual background or blur feature. And above all, stay positive and remember to smile.
7. Utilize Your Online Presence
Your online profiles often act as your first impression. Before you attend events, make sure your LinkedIn is up to date with:
- A clear profile photo
- An accurate headline and summary
- Your current education, roles and certifications
You can also post before and after an event to show you are engaged in your field. Focus on sharing real takeaways, reflections or questions rather than posting just for the sake of activity.
Looking to elevate your LinkedIn profile? Follow these tips to build a strong LinkedIn Profile.
8. Provide Value
Networking is a two-way street. Look for ways to add value to others, both in person and online.
At events, you can:
- Share your knowledge or experience when it is relevant
- Introduce people who might benefit from knowing each other
- Point someone toward a resource, event or organization that matches their goals
On LinkedIn, asking thoughtful questions about topics you care about is a great way to learn, engage your network and spark conversations that others can benefit from reading.
9. Follow Up
Real relationships are built after the event.
When you reach out, be specific and meaningful. Instead of a generic “nice to meet you,” remind the person how you met and reference something you discussed. You might:
- Connect on LinkedIn with a short, personalized note
- Share a relevant article, podcast or event
- Ask a brief follow-up question
If you spoke with someone in a role or field you are interested in, you could ask for a book or podcast recommendation during your conversation. Later, you can follow up to share what you learned, which keeps the dialogue going.
10. Look For Opportunities
Professional programs and designations, such as the CPA program, can significantly expand your network. They connect you to ambitious peers, mentors, instructors, and employers who understand your path and can support your growth.
When you attend events with colleagues or have ongoing professional relationships, do not hesitate to ask for feedback on your networking skills. An outside perspective can help you refine how you show up, communicate, and build connections over time.
Remember, networking can be fun!
Most people at a networking event are there to learn. This isn’t an interview, but a chance to connect – so enjoy your time. Try to attend a variety of different events and span your network across industries and sectors and explore both in-person and online events. Don’t shy away from an online event! And if you attend an online event, keep these tips in mind and be sure to keep your camera on and engage – make the most of the event!
Networking is ultimately about people, not perfection. With each event, conversation and follow-up, you are practicing a skill that will support your career for years to come.
Happy networking! Ready to try these networking tips? Attend one of our CPA Professional Panels and Networking Events.