Brainy Business in Leadership: How to Network Your Way to Success (Without Feeling Like a Walking LinkedIn Profile)

Let’s be honest: the word networking often conjures images of awkward conversations at cocktail parties, sweaty handshakes, and the desperate exchange of business cards that end up in the back of a drawer. But networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about connecting, building relationships, and—brace yourself—it’s actually good for your brain.

Yes, you read that right. Neuroscience now supports what top business leaders have long suspected: relationships are essential for personal and professional growth. In fact, networking is one of the most effective ways to ensure success in your career, team, and organization. And the best part? You don’t have to schmooze like a used car salesperson to do it. So, let’s dive into why your brain (and your career) needs networking, and how to approach it with purpose, humor, and a strategic mindset.

The Neuroscience of Networking: Your Brain on Relationships

First things first: let’s talk brains. Neuroscience research reveals that humans are hardwired for connection. The act of socializing releases dopamine—our “feel-good” chemical—which means building and maintaining relationships isn’t just good for your soul, it’s also a fantastic way to boost your cognitive function. Studies have found that engaging in meaningful relationships improves memory, reduces stress, and even increases lifespan. Turns out, your brain loves a good conversation (especially one that doesn’t involve endless small talk).

But there’s more to it than just feeling good. Networking activates neural pathways linked to problem-solving, creativity, and emotional intelligence—key ingredients for effective leadership. In a 2016 study from Harvard Business Review, leaders with strong professional networks were 74% more likely to achieve success in their roles. Why? Because networking isn’t just about who you know—it’s about how you think and solve problems in collaboration with others.

Why We Struggle with Networking (and How to Fix It)

Let’s face it: many of us struggle with networking because we feel we don’t have the time, or worse, we think we’re not “naturally” good at it. But here’s a little secret: great networking isn’t about being an extrovert, it’s about being intentional.

Keith Ferrazzi, author of Never Eat Alone, reminds us that successful networking is about generosity, not transactional thinking. Too often, we approach networking as a way to get something out of others, rather than focusing on building lasting, meaningful relationships. The truth is, people are more willing to help you when they feel a real connection.

The Networking Power Plan: It’s All About the Goals

Let’s debunk the myth that networking is about random connections. It’s not. It’s about purposefully building, maintaining, and nurturing relationships that matter. Like any good business strategy, you need a plan. Here’s a simple goal-setting framework for networking that leverages the latest leadership research to help grow your relationships in ways that truly impact your career.

1. The Maintenance Zone: Don’t Neglect What You’ve Got

The first step to becoming a networking pro? Nurture the relationships you already have. Harvard Business School research shows that most professionals only reach out to old contacts when they need something—a mistake that damages trust. Instead, regularly check in with your existing network. Send a thoughtful note, schedule a quick coffee, or share a helpful resource. Keep those synaptic pathways firing!

I experienced this firsthand when I recently met up with co-workers from a previous job. Although we had all moved on to different workplaces, we had stayed connected online. Finally, after years, we met in person again. We each shared personal updates, professional wins, and challenges. The value of this network we’ve chosen to maintain became clear: it’s tough to find people you truly trust and with whom you can be raw and honest, especially in the workplace. This network has become a rare and invaluable resource. Additionally, we ran into several other people we either all new or someone new and introduced the rest of us compounding the networking effect.

Tip: Set a goal to reconnect with three people in your network every month. Not because you need something, but because relationships are investments, not transactions.

2. The Growth Zone: Time to Branch Out

While maintaining your existing network is critical, don’t forget to build new connections. Research from Stanford University highlights the importance of having a diverse network. The more varied your connections, the more creative your problem-solving becomes.

I had the pleasure of experiencing this when I met someone I admired through LinkedIn. After connecting virtually, we decided to meet in person, which led to a fruitful collaboration. Not only did we work well together, but I also had the opportunity to introduce her to someone else in my network who I knew would be a great professional match. This is where the power of networking really shines—it’s not just about what you gain, but how you facilitate valuable connections for others.

Tip: Set a goal to meet at least one new person in your field every month, and challenge yourself to diversify your network. Aim for quality, not quantity. Seek out people who challenge your thinking and offer a fresh perspective.

Want to learn more about diversifying your network?? NPR has an informative podcast: https://www.npr.org/2020/07/27/895858974/creativity-and-diversity-how-exposure-to-different-people-affects-our-thinking

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3. The Legacy Zone: Play the Long Game

Networking isn’t just about the here and now—it’s about building a legacy of trust and connection that lasts over the long haul. The most successful leaders don’t just network for today’s needs; they network with a vision of the future. Adam Grant, author of Give and Take, highlights that the most successful professionals are “givers”—people who build networks by providing value to others without expecting immediate returns.

Building long-term relationships means being generous with your time, insights, and expertise. Not only does this enhance your reputation, but it also sets the foundation for future collaborations and partnerships.

Tip: Make it a habit to offer help to someone in your network at least once a month. Whether it’s an introduction, a recommendation, or just offering to listen, being generous pays off in ways you can’t predict.

Network Like a Neuroscientist: A Final Thought

The bottom line? Networking isn’t about shaking as many hands as possible or collecting a Rolodex of contacts. It’s about nurturing relationships that matter—both for your brain, your career, and business success. Neuroscience shows that building connections enhances emotional intelligence, creativity, and leadership abilities. But it’s not just about what you get out of these relationships. It’s about playing the long game and making a genuine effort to be a meaningful part of someone else’s network.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the idea of networking, remember: you’re not just making small talk; you’re building the brainpower and relationships you need to thrive. Now, get out there, set some networking goals, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll enjoy the process a little more (brain-boosting dopamine included).

Feel free to share your own best networking tips, tools, and lessons in the chat, let's start networking!

Dr. Susy Best is an international best-selling author, speaker, facilitator, leadership and team strategist, coach, and consultant. She is passionate about leaders being equipped to live a Thriving life and invests in enhancing workplace wellbeing through teaching, facilitating, and speaking to leaders about visionary leadership, agility, and emotional intelligence. No matter the mode, Dr. Susy is Best at privately guiding high-performing leaders to peak strengths & performance using neuroscience and the best practices of neuroleadership. ?Connect with her on LinkedIn for more insights and support.