Networking: Flex Your Connection Muscles

Networking can feel like exercise—necessary but sometimes exhausting, especially if you dread the thought of striking up a conversation with strangers. With a simple reframe, networking can be fun and easy for anyone. Here are my tips for flexing your networking muscles without breaking a sweat:

Don’t Play the Comparison Game

Your networking and career path are unique—embrace that. If you’re not a social butterfly, don’t force it. If you thrive on making connections everywhere you go, go for it! Step outside your comfort zone at your own pace. While you should avoid comparison, you can emulate. If you admire someone’s networking approach, ask for their advice. Seeking guidance is a great way to build authentic connections.

Repetition Matters - Keep It Consistent?

Just like exercise, you won’t see noticeable results in your first networking session, but if you keep at it over time, you will. Making networking a priority and starting with small, continuous efforts will yield sustainable results.

One way you can do this is by starting with what you know. If you have never done weightlifting, you aren’t going to attend the advanced class. You start at the beginner class where things won’t feel too out of reach. In practical terms, this means you start somewhere familiar. Ask someone you know to introduce you to their network. Attend an event specific to your industry. Start connecting with industry professionals on LinkedIn. Consistency is key. However, it does not have to be a grind—find what works for you.

Find Your Style & Make It Fun

Just like exercise, you’re more likely to stick with networking if you enjoy it. If you hate running, don’t run—find what works for you! Gone are the days of stiff conference rooms and awkward business card exchanges that end up in the trash. Virtual networking lets you connect from home without the hassle of traffic, while in-person events—like those at PMI Mile Hi—offer a relaxed atmosphere with food, drinks, and good conversation.

If you don't like small talk, asynchronous tools like LinkedIn let you engage thoughtfully on your own time. And if walking into an event alone sounds like a nightmare, bring a buddy! Strengthening existing connections while expanding your network makes the experience more natural and enjoyable.

Bottom line: Networking should feel natural. Support each other, and experiment with different approaches until you find one that clicks. The best connections happen when you're having fun!

Set Goals & Track Those Gains

Having fun with networking doesn’t mean avoiding challenges. In fact, setting goals can make it more rewarding by giving you a sense of purpose—just like having a workout plan at the gym. Before an event, ask yourself: What do I want to achieve? A mentor? New clients? Career opportunities? Defining your goals helps you approach networking with confidence.

Beyond individual events, set broader networking goals. Block time each week or commit to one event per month. At your next event, challenge yourself to learn how someone found a mentor or transitioned careers. Small, targeted goals make networking feel structured and effective.

And don’t forget to track your progress! Just like logging workouts, keeping notes on who you meet, key takeaways, and follow-ups help you stay organized. A simple spreadsheet, notebook, or phone notes will do. Tracking interactions makes follow-ups more meaningful and helps you refine your approach over time. LinkedIn makes connecting and follow-up easy with a simple QR code. Looking back, you’ll see how far you’ve come—and how much your network has grown!

Don’t Burn Out

Social fatigue is real—especially for those of us who work from home—and networking can feel like running a marathon if you’re not used to it. Just like with physical endurance, you need to build up your social stamina over time. Pay attention to how you're feeling, and don’t be afraid to step away when needed. Take a breather outside, grab some water, or call it a night and go rest to only follow up with those connections tomorrow. Giving yourself permission to recharge will help you to stay engaged and make more meaningful connections.

Another great way to ease the pressure is by shifting your focus outward. Instead of worrying about how you’re coming across, get curious about others. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and let your genuine interest guide the conversation. Not only will this make networking feel more natural, but it will also help you leave a lasting impression. It goes with the ole adage - most people don’t care about what you know until they know about how you care.

Mix It Up For Better Balance

Don’t be like the guy at the gym who skips leg day—balance is key! A strong professional network isn’t just about having one type of connection like colleagues; it benefits from variety. Seek out people from different industries, backgrounds, experience levels, and locations. Attend different types of events, even those slightly outside your field.

While close connections are valuable, studies show that most people find new job opportunities through weak ties—casual acquaintances rather than close colleagues. That’s because these looser connections expose you to entirely different networks, broadening your opportunities in ways a tight-knit circle can’t. Strong relationships with mentors and peers are important, but so are those more casual, diverse connections. The wider your network, the more doors you open—no one has ever regretted having a diverse professional network.

Maintain Your Network Muscle

Once you’ve built a strong network, the key is maintenance. Staying connected is far easier than starting from scratch, and when the time comes to ask for advice, a job lead, or a favor, it’ll feel natural—not transactional. A well-maintained network isn’t just useful; it’s a source of ongoing support, collaboration, and opportunity.

Here are some simple ways to keep your network thriving in an authentic and fulfilling way:

• Support others without expectation. Offer help when you see an opportunity—support job searches, congratulate promotions, or make introductions. Even small gestures, like commenting on a LinkedIn post, show engagement.
• Ask for insights. Reach out for advice on career moves, industry trends, or projects. This keeps relationships active and makes your connections feel valued.
• Get involved in professional groups. Joining professional groups and volunteering helps you regularly connect with other professionals. PMI Mile Hi, for example, offers great networking and volunteer opportunities. (Another shameless plug, but this is a space I’m passionate about!)
• Celebrate wins—yours and theirs. A quick message to acknowledge promotions, work anniversaries, birthdays or personal achievements keeps relationships warm and genuine.
• Make meaningful introductions. One of the most valuable things you can do is connect people in your network. This strengthens your relationships and expands your own influence. I introduced three speakers to another PMI chapter president last week.
• Set a networking habit. Whether it’s reaching out to two people a week, dedicating an hour or two a month, or attending a quarterly event, having a routine ensures you stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed.
• Attend industry events. A great opportunity for project managers is the upcoming Rocky Mountain Project Management Symposium (April 18, 2025). It offers networking on steroids with about 1,000 attendees. It’s packed with insightful sessions and top-tier professionals—perfect for expanding your network while gaining valuable knowledge. Plus, I’d be happy to introduce you to at least 1-2 people during the event, so come find me!

By making networking a regular part of your professional life, you’ll cultivate relationships that feel natural, supportive, and beneficial—not just when you need them, but all the time, because at the end of the day, networking is about building real, meaningful relationships.?

Just like any fitness journey, progress takes time, consistency, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. So start where you are, set your goals, and most importantly—enjoy the process! With the right mindset and a little effort, networking can go from feeling like a chore to becoming one of your greatest professional strengths. Now, go flex those connection muscles!