Real Talk: How to Build Your Network (Without Feeling Like a Fake)

Let's be honest - most networking advice makes you feel like you need to transform into some ultra-polished, business-card-wielding robot. But here's the thing: the best professional relationships happen when you just act like... well, yourself.

Drop the Act, Keep It Real

You know what's exhausting? Pretending to be someone you're not. Instead of rehearsing the perfect elevator pitch, try this wild approach: actually talk about stuff you care about.

• Geek out about that cool project you're working on

• Share what keeps you up at night about your industry

• Talk about that wild idea you have for fixing a common problem

• Admit when you're struggling with something (yes, really!)

How to Actually Do This

At Work & Industry Events

Instead of the dreaded "So... what do you do?" try:

• "What's the coolest thing you're working on right now?"

• "What made you decide to get into this field?"

• "Got any work problems keeping you up at night?"

• "What's your take on [latest industry trend/news]?"

On LinkedIn

Forget those stuffy corporate posts. Try:

• Sharing the messy reality of your work day

• Asking genuine questions about things you're curious about

• Celebrating others' wins (but like a real person, not a corporate bot)

• Actually engaging with posts that interest you (not just "Great post!")

Making It Work When You're Busy (AKA Always)

Look, we're all swamped. Here's how to keep up relationships without losing your mind:

1. Spend 15 minutes each morning checking in with your network

2. Set up a quick coffee chat once a week

3. Share interesting articles when you actually find them interesting

4. Comment on posts when you genuinely have something to say

The "Don't Be a Jerk" Rules

Simple stuff, but worth remembering:

• Don't only reach out when you need something

• Actually listen when people talk

• Remember personal details (yes, write them down if you need to)

• Follow through when you say you'll do something

• Bonus points for sending thank you emails/messages!

Quick Wins for Today

Want to start right now? Try one of these:

1. Text that cool person you met at last week's meeting

2. Share an article that made you think "huh, that's interesting"

3. Congratulate someone on something specific (not just "congrats!")

4. Ask someone you admire for their take on an industry problem

Keep It Simple

At the end of the day, building your network is really just about being a decent human who's genuinely interested in other people. Talk about what fires you up, listen when others do the same, and forget about trying to sound "professional" all the time.

The best connections happen when you're just being you. So start there.

What's something in your field that you could talk about for hours?