Here's how you can leverage networking to propel your career in the Web3 industry.

In this industry, building rapport goes beyond formal networking. I have found that showing up consistently in the same spaces whether virtual meet-ups, hackathons, or Discord channels allows you to build relationships naturally. It’s the small interactions, like helping someone debug a contract or sharing insights in a discussion, that build trust over time. Consistency in these environments leads to meaningful connections, as people recognize your genuine interest and willingness to collaborate.

Engaging online in Web3 isn't just about joining conversations it’s about offering a unique perspective. Staying active in communities like Crypto Twitter and LinkedIn helped me establish thought leadership by sharing niche technical knowledge, such as insights into new protocols or blockchain technology trends. By regularly contributing insights, not just questions, I built credibility and invited deeper engagement, often leading to collaborative projects. Early in my Web3 career, I joined various Discord communities, which helped me understand the true ethos of Web3. Interestingly, I later met many of those same individuals in person at events, showing just how small and tight-knit this space is.

When it comes to in-person networking, I always go in with a plan. Before attending conferences like ETHDenver, Consensus, or even NYC based events, I research attendees, speakers, and projects I am interested in. This preparation allows me to engage in more meaningful conversations. At these events, I don’t just exchange pleasantries; I aim to provide value by offering ideas or feedback tailored to the person or company I’m speaking with. Following up afterward is crucial—whether it's a personalized email or a message on LinkedIn, I recap our discussion and express interest in future collaboration. This approach often turns a simple introduction into an ongoing conversation and potential partnership.

While online networking is great, sometimes you just have to put on pants and meet people in real life. ?? I find that having a plan for who you want to meet or what you want to learn helps—plus, it makes it less awkward when you randomly bump into someone at the coffee station for the third time. For me, events are about genuine connections, understanding different perspectives, and swapping Web3 insights... or at least getting a free pen or two.

Offering value helps you network in Web3 by demonstrating your expertise, building trust, and creating mutually beneficial relationships. By contributing to projects, sharing insights, or solving problems within the community, you position yourself as a valuable resource. In my experience, explaining new concepts to your audience on a regular basis helps to underline your reputation as a forward thinker and helps to open doors for networking. You have to be constantly aware that Web3 is built on trust, so when adding value, you really need to make sure you know what you’re talking about. As the saying goes, “It takes a lifetime to build a reputation, and 5 minutes to destroy it.”

Offering value in Web3 is about contributing in ways that genuinely help others solve problems. In my early Web3 development days, I would review and improve codebases for fellow developers in the community, which demonstrated my technical expertise and built trust. As I gained more experience, I expanded my contributions by running bootcamps, sharing research findings, and hosting sessions within Blockchain@Columbia. Additionally, through Chain Pe Charcha, I created spaces for open discussion on blockchain technologies. Offering insights tailored to the community's needs not only builds opportunities but positions you as a valuable resource others can rely on.

Following up is critical but should be done thoughtfully. After meeting someone at a conference or in an online forum, I always follow up with a short, personalized message that recalls a part of our conversation and suggests an actionable next step whether it’s sharing resources, continuing a discussion, or even collaborating on a project. It’s about nurturing the relationship with authenticity, not just exchanging contact information. Over time, these follow-ups turn into lasting professional relationships.

In the rapidly evolving Web3 space, your network grows as your expertise does. I prioritize learning by regularly deep-diving into emerging technologies like currently I am looking into Bitcoin Layer 2 scaling solutions or DeFi protocols building on top of it. This continuous learning not only helps me stay relevant but also provides fresh insights I can share with my network. Learning isn’t a solo journey it’s collaborative in Web3. By discussing what I learn with others in the community, I find new connections and opportunities.