Why Networking Should Never Be Left Until You Need It

In my career, I've learned a valuable lesson: Networking is something you must do continuously, long before you need help from others. If you wait until you're in a pinch to start networking, it’s already too late.

I’ve seen this happen firsthand with people who only make connections when they’re looking for a job or seeking help with a specific project.

It might seem convenient, but it’s not how relationships or networks are built effectively. Successful networking is about laying the groundwork early—building relationships when there’s no immediate need.

It’s about staying in touch, helping others when you can, and giving before you ask for anything in return.

The Importance of Helping Others in Networking

A big part of building a strong network is being open to helping others when they reach out to you.

Helping others isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also an investment in the future. When you help someone, you’re creating goodwill and building a relationship that could be valuable down the line, even if there’s no immediate benefit for you.

Over the years, I’ve helped many people in my network who were going through career changes, transitions, or challenges.

Offering advice, making introductions, or just providing support—it’s part of being a connector. I’ve always seen these acts of kindness as small deposits into the bank of networking, expecting nothing in return but knowing that it keeps the relationship strong.

The Reality of Reciprocity

Unfortunately, despite all the good intentions, not everyone follows the same unwritten rules of reciprocity.

There have been times when I’ve helped people, only to find that when I later reached out for help, I didn’t get the same response.

The truth is, some people won’t reciprocate. But that doesn’t mean it’s a reason to stop helping others or to stop building your network.

In fact, you should still offer help freely, knowing that some people won’t return the favor but also understanding that many more will.

That’s the exception, not the rule. And over time, you’ll find that your network is built on a foundation of mutual respect and ongoing relationships.

Networking Is a Long-Term Game

The key to successful networking is consistency. It’s about staying in touch with people over the long term, even when you don’t need anything from them. So, how do you keep your network strong? Here are a few tips that can help:

1. Be Consistent, Not Just Transactional: Make networking a part of your routine. Regularly check in with people in your network, even if it’s just a short message to see how they’re doing or to share something relevant to their interests or business. This shows that you value the relationship and aren’t just looking for something when it’s convenient.
2. Attend Industry Events (Even Virtually): Networking doesn’t always have to be in person. Attend industry-related conferences, webinars, or workshops. Whether online or face-to-face, these events are a great opportunity to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships. By showing up, you're already making an investment in your network.
3. Offer Value First: Don’t wait until you need something to offer help. Find ways to add value to others' lives and careers without expecting anything in return. This can be as simple as sharing an article you think they’d find interesting or introducing them to someone in your network who might be a good fit for a project or job.
4. Cultivate Relationships with a Diverse Group: Build a network that is diverse in terms of skills, industries, and backgrounds. A strong, well-rounded network can provide a broader range of perspectives, advice, and opportunities.
5. Follow Up After Initial Connections: It’s not enough to just exchange business cards or LinkedIn connections. Follow up with a personalized message or email, thanking the person for their time and expressing genuine interest in staying in touch.
6. Use Social Media Strategically: Social media is a powerful tool for networking, but it should be used intentionally. Share relevant content, comment on others’ posts, and engage in conversations to build your visibility and credibility.
7. Be a Connector: One of the best ways to build goodwill in your network is by connecting others. If you know someone who could benefit from meeting someone else in your network, make the introduction. It not only helps others but also strengthens your position as a go-to person in your network.
8. Be Genuine and Authentic: People can tell when you're being authentic. Instead of trying to impress others, focus on being yourself. Build connections based on genuine interest in others, not just because you’re looking for something from them.
9. Create Opportunities to Connect: Networking isn’t just about responding to opportunities—it’s about creating them. Think about ways you can bring people together, such as organizing a lunch, a coffee chat, or even a virtual event.
10. Stay Patient and Persistent: Networking is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t expect immediate results. Stay patient, and keep showing up, offering help, and building relationships. Over time, the strength of your network will become apparent in the opportunities and support it provides.

Actionable Step: When you connect with someone new, don’t expect a favor immediately. Instead, build a relationship over time. Stay patient, and keep nurturing those connections. You never know when the right opportunity will arise.

Don’t Let Setbacks Discourage You

When reciprocity doesn’t come through, don’t let that derail your efforts. I

t’s easy to feel disappointed when you’ve helped someone and they don’t return the favor, but that doesn’t mean you should stop.

Instead, recognize that some people don’t operate by the same principles—and that’s okay. I think of it as a cost of doing business.

Focus on the bigger picture, and don’t let one setback prevent you from continuing to network and help others.

Networking isn’t about keeping score; it’s about building relationships that can withstand the ups and downs.

Keep helping, keep connecting, and trust that your network will be there when you need it.

A Call to Action: Start Now

So, what does all this mean for you? It means that the best time to start networking is now—whether you’re just starting out in your career or you’ve been at it for years.

Make it a habit to connect with people, help others when you can, and build relationships without waiting for a specific need.

Because the truth is, when you’ve built a strong, reliable network over time, you won’t need to scramble when an opportunity arises.

Your network will already be in place, and you’ll have built it on a foundation of mutual respect, support, and genuine connection.

Start now. Don’t wait until you need something. Build relationships continuously, and you’ll reap the rewards for years to come.