My Top Lessons from a Summer of Networking
We’ve all heard it before: networking is extremely important.
By now, I’ve heard this more times than I can count: throughout undergrad, from friends and family, during grad school, and especially during the job hunt. This summer, I realized just how true it is. Networking is a simple, everyday concept, but it’s more complex than it seems. It doesn’t always look like the traditional image of big events, stiff handshakes, and business cards being traded back and forth. Sometimes, networking is much more subtle. It can be as simple as chatting with someone in line at a coffee shop, striking up a conversation in an elevator, or meeting a stranger at a tailgate.
Why Networking Matters
Networking helps open doors and create opportunities that might never come from applications alone. This is especially relevant when you’re in the job market. Not every job gets posted online. In fact, a significant number of roles are filled through referrals and word of mouth. Sometimes, it takes the right connection to open the door to your dream job.
Networking also doesn’t have to be formal, and it doesn’t even have to be in person anymore. Social media has made it easier than ever to build and maintain professional relationships. Personally, I’ve made lasting connections online and kept in touch with people across the country (and even across the world) through platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram.
What I’ve learned is that networking often surprises you. You might strike up a conversation at a friend’s football tailgate and find out how they know someone hiring at a company you’ve had your eye on. My mom likes to tell me that "everybody knows somebody who can open a door for you." I live in a tight-knit city, so it's not uncommon for this to be the case. These kinds of connections are proof that networking is less about structured events and more about being open to unexpected conversations.
Most importantly, networking doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Small, everyday interactions count just as much, and they can often lead to significant opportunities.
Networking Can Happen Anywhere
When you think about it, everything is a networking opportunity. Some of my most valuable connections have come from everyday settings.
As someone who loves sports, I go to a lot of football and basketball games. One of my favorite aspects of attending games is meeting new people who share my love of sports and all things Louisville. I try to make new connections at every game I go to, whether that’s a football game or a basketball game. I’ve actually made this even more of a mission lately, and I’ve seen success so far. At the time of writing, there have already been two home football games, and I made new connections at both! Sporting events are a natural way to connect because you’re already bonding over a shared interest. While not everyone wants to talk about working during a game, it’s not uncommon for the conversation to drift there, especially when you’re just getting to know someone.
I’ve also made connections in line at the store or when I’m out to eat with my family. These interactions can be hit or miss, but they’re proof that networking doesn’t always have to be planned. I’ve struck up conversations with cashiers, servers, and baristas just by being friendly at the counter or checkout. On top of that, when I’m out with my parents, I’m often introduced to people they know, and I always try to make a good impression. Those casual introductions, facilitated by my family and friends, have a way of expanding my network without me even realizing it in the moment.
Networking can also occur at larger events, such as weddings and parties. These are natural places to meet new people. Since you’re already in a social setting, conversations tend to flow more easily. Whether it’s chatting with someone at your table or meeting a mutual friend on the dance floor, those connections can stick with you long after the event ends.
Networking Through Others
Sometimes, opportunities to network come through mutual connections. A friend might introduce you to someone in their circle who’s worth meeting, and that happens more often than people realize. Indirect networking works so well because it carries built-in credibility. If someone you trust makes the introduction, their reputation gives weight to their recommendation. The other person is more likely to listen, and the conversation starts with a layer of trust already in place. That makes it easier to break the ice and increases the chances of forming a genuine connection.
Never underestimate the reach of your extended network. A professor who knows someone at a company you admire, or a casual acquaintance your parents work with, can unexpectedly open doors. More often than not, it’s not the polished pitches or formal events that create opportunity; it’s the quiet, trusted introductions. Stay open and pay attention, because the people you least expect may end up connecting you to your next big step.
The Value of Coffee Chats
One of my favorite networking formats this summer has been the coffee chat. These informational meetups are far less intimidating than traditional interviews. So far, I’ve done several. Some have been with peers I’ve known for years, while others have been with seasoned professionals I’ve never spoken to. All of these meetings have been candid, genuine, and surprisingly comfortable. It’s easier to be yourself when you’re in a casual setting, and the low-pressure environment a coffeehouse provides helps a lot when you’re trying to build a real connection with someone. Besides, who doesn’t love grabbing coffee at a cozy coffeehouse?
The coffee chat isn’t just a fun excuse to get someone out of the office for a while. Coffee chats are proven to be more effective than traditional job applications, which is why many people swear by them. In fact, coffee chats can yield conversion rates of 30% or higher, and this is because of the emotional connection that a coffee chat can foster. Coffee chats also give you access to the hidden job market, which makes up a massive portion of the job market. The hidden job market refers to job openings that are not publicly advertised or posted. Remember, many jobs are not posted outright. It may take a few coffee chats to tap into the hidden job market, where your dream job is waiting to be discovered.
Embracing the Awkwardness
I’m going to be blunt here: networking is usually pretty awkward. There’s small talk that feels forced, silences that stretch a little too long, and nerves that come with meeting someone new. However, that awkwardness is entirely normal, and it can actually work in your favor. Embracing it can make you feel more comfortable and less self-conscious.
When you stop resisting the awkwardness and accept it as part of the networking process, you give yourself permission to be authentic. The goal isn’t to have a perfect conversation, but to create a real connection with someone. Sometimes, it takes a few rough edges and awkward moments to get there.
At one event this summer, I only knew one person in the room. Instead of hanging back, I joined the group they were talking with and admitted that starting conversations in a room full of strangers can feel a little intimidating. That small moment of honesty actually helped me spark common ground with the group. Others agreed, we laughed it off together, and the conversation flowed from there. By the end of the night, I had built a real rapport with people I’d never met before. This illustrates that awkwardness can be an opportunity to make a connection.
Practical Tips That Helped Me
Know how to pitch yourself in a sentence or two — It helps to be able to quickly explain who you are and what you do. A clear, simple pitch works in every setting, from formal meetups to casual conversations in line at the store.
Keep a few conversation starters ready — Neutral topics like sports, travel, or even the venue itself are easy entry points. If you’re at a football game, talking about the team or the program is a natural way to strike up a conversation. Having one or two go-to topics helps ease the pressure when your mind goes blank.
Don’t be afraid to take the initiative — Someone has to say hello first, and it might as well be you. Starting the conversation shows confidence and makes you memorable. Most people are relieved when someone else takes that first step, and it makes you stand out as approachable.
Carry business cards or a digital equivalent — It may feel old-fashioned, but handing someone a card still makes a strong impression. I designed mine from scratch, complete with a logo, and they’ve sparked compliments that boosted my confidence as a young professional. I always give out two: “one to keep and one to lose.” Not only does it make the interaction memorable, it also gives them an extra to pass along to someone else.
Follow up afterward — After connecting on LinkedIn or exchanging numbers, don’t let the conversation end there. A quick note like, “It was great meeting you at [event]. I’d love to stay in touch and hear more about your work in [field],” keeps the relationship alive and shows you value the connection.
Bringing It All Together
All in all, networking doesn’t always look like the big, formal event we imagine. More often, it’s casual, flexible, and happening in unexpected places, even when we don’t realize it. That’s why it always pays to be approachable and ready to introduce yourself, especially when you’re with friends who may run into people they know. Even when introductions feel awkward, it’s worth leaning in. The truth is, the small conversations often turn out to be the ones that matter most.
Networking is different for everyone, and we all pick up unique lessons along the way. I’d love to hear from you!
Where have you made unexpected connections recently?
What’s one networking tip that’s worked well for you?
