I can't imagine myself not networking and socializing to build those connections. It's part of who I am and a big reason my business is where it is today. But you won't find me on a golf course. It's not my style, and I think there are way more interesting ways to build real relationships with people. One of the things I love to do is join local pick-up soccer games. It's a great way to meet people from all sorts of backgrounds, and you don't have to talk about work right off the bat. There's something about being on a field, working as a team, that naturally helps you connect with others. You find yourself strategizing, joking around, and supporting each other, even if you've just met. It breaks down barriers quickly because everyone's focused on the game, not titles or job roles. You can see someone's competitive side, their sense of humor, or how they handle a tough situation, all without having a single formal introduction. After the game, the vibe is usually pretty relaxed, and people are open to hanging around for a bit. We'll often head to a nearby bar or grab some food together. That's when the real conversations start happening. The shift into talking about life, work, and whatever else comes up naturally. Maybe someone mentions a problem they're facing at work, or another person talks about a side project they're passionate about. Those informal chats have turned into some great opportunities, like new clients, potential collaborations, or simply getting a fresh perspective on a problem I'm facing with my business. What I like most is that it never feels forced. You're already on a high from playing and sharing a few laughs, so the conversation flows naturally. It's such a different energy from sitting down in a conference room with a suit on, and it makes the relationships feel more real. You get to know people more genuinely, and you're more likely to remember each other when it comes time to reconnect. It's always a good feeling to see a familiar face when you're at a local event or business gathering later on. Those bonds you form on the field tend to last, even when you're back in the work world.
A mentor gave me advice once that's always stuck with me: when choosing networking events, find the ones that will attract the kind of people you want to be surrounded by. For me, that means people who strive for continuous growth and are always eager to learn new things. In my experience, professionals who have this kind of growth mindset are also often avid readers. As someone who also loves reading, this makes book clubs and events an ideal place to professionally socialize. If you want to keep things in the professional realm, you can look for (or start) groups that discuss nonfiction books on topics like professional development or leadership. Along with reading and talking about books, you can also attend events together like talks and readings given by the authors. This is one of those great "two birds one stone" activities because you'll learn things from the books or speakers at the same time you're building connections with like-minded professionals.
In today's fast-paced tech landscape, networking often feels transactional-like a series of business cards exchanged at industry events or fleeting introductions at crowded conferences. However, I recently discovered an unconventional yet highly effective way to foster genuine connections: combining fitness with networking. I participated in Techwalk, a vibrant community initiative where a group of 15-20 tech enthusiasts gathers for a hike. Imagine this: instead of the usual boardroom or cafe setting, we're trekking through scenic trails, engaging in meaningful conversations as we navigate nature's beauty. The fresh air and physical activity create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages open dialogue and authentic relationship-building. It's not merely about exchanging LinkedIn profiles; it's about forming lasting bonds based on shared experiences and mutual interests. But the journey doesn't stop there. As someone who actively hosts events and cultivates a women-led community, I have dedicated myself to mentoring women in data. Through this endeavor, I've encountered a plethora of inspiring founders, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and industry practitioners. Each interaction has not only enriched my professional network but also blossomed into wonderful friendships. Hosting events has allowed me to create spaces where women can share their stories, challenges, and triumphs, fostering a supportive environment that encourages growth and collaboration. In these gatherings, I've seen firsthand how mentoring can transform lives, not just for the mentees but also for those of us who guide them.
I love going to the park, especially in New York where they have open leash hours for dogs. It's a great chance to casually meet people in a relaxed setting, and the best part is-I don't even have a dog! I go with friends who have dogs, and they already know other pet parents. It's a natural way to strike up conversations and build relationships without the pressure of a formal networking event. It's amazing how many connections you can make just by hanging out and talking about everyday things like pets or life in the city.
Hi, I'm Jay Yue, a 2X exited founder, and I've recently raised $6M in the AI travel tech space. Currently, I lead Growth at Wanderboat, a platform that attracts over 300K monthly visitors by helping travelers discover local gems and experiences through personalized recommendations. One of the most impactful experiences for me in building professional relationships came through volunteering for a community project in San Francisco, sponsored by Venmo. While the primary focus of the project was supporting small local businesses, it became an unexpected networking opportunity that went far beyond traditional settings like the golf course or office meetups. During the project, I connected with several other tech startup founders who were also volunteering. Our conversations naturally shifted toward discussing growth strategies and startup tactics, which led to meaningful, insightful exchanges. These weren't surface-level business card swaps; they were deep discussions rooted in shared passion and community spirit. I took away a number of valuable lessons from these founders that I've since implemented in my own ventures. Venmo's sponsorship also brought in their executives, adding another dynamic layer of interaction. It was inspiring to meet industry leaders in such a relaxed, genuine setting. The professional relationships I built through this experience were not only impactful but long-lasting. It reinforced the idea that networking doesn't have to be confined to traditional business environments-authentic, valuable connections can come from anywhere, especially when you're working together for a meaningful cause. This experience has reshaped the way I approach networking, and I encourage others to explore non-traditional avenues like community volunteering. You never know when a shared interest might lead to your next great business collaboration. Thanks, Jay Yue 929-355-5134 jay@uta-inc.com wanderboat.ai
Hit there! I hope you are having an amazing day. Happy to join in on this conversation. I'm Vukasin, a co-founder at Linkter, an SEO internal linking tool, and an SEO consultant with around 14 years of marketing experience. I'm hopeful my insights on networking will prove to be valuable to you. One networking tactic that has worked wonders for me outside traditional work settings is reaching out on LinkedIn or Twitter with a personalized message of appreciation. I don't just send a generic connection request-I take the time to compliment someone on a specific piece of work or insight they've shared. It's amazing how far a genuine compliment can go. For example, I once came across an article by a marketing leader on LinkedIn about brand storytelling. I messaged them, specifically mentioning a section that resonated with me and how I applied it in my own work. That small, thoughtful outreach led to a Zoom call, and eventually, we collaborated on a webinar together. The key is to make it personal-mention a project they worked on, an article they wrote, or a talk they gave that genuinely impressed you. It only takes a few minutes a day, and it's much more effective than the cold, generic "Let's connect" messages most people send. In fact, studies show that 79% of professionals feel building a personal connection is the key to successful networking. Sending just 3 personalized messages a day can quickly expand your network in a meaningful way, without the awkwardness of formal events or forced interactions. Actionable tip: Be specific, be sincere, and don't overthink it. Just start by appreciating someone's work-it's a small gesture that can lead to big opportunities. Regardless if you quote me or not, let me know how that article goes, I'd love to give it a read. And if you need me to expand on anything, I'll be here! Here are my personal details in case you decide to credit me: Name: Vukasin Ilic Position: Co-founder of Linkter.ai LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vukasin-ilic/ Website: https://www.linkter.ai/ Headshot: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jZV4dV2qjvutg9MsdUf2bvlxI17jrXxF/view?usp=sharing Previous media mentions: TechBullion: https://techbullion.com/navigating-paid-advertising-15-key-tips-for-maximizing-roi/ SEOptimer: https://www.seoptimer.com/blog/how-to-get-an-seo-job/
As someone who transitioned from a network engineer to a construction manager, and now a writer, I've found non-traditional networking through cross-industry project collaborations incredibly valuable. While overseeing construction projects, I frequently engaged with diverse teams comprising architects, designers, and IT specialists. This exposure led to forming relationships beyond the immediate construction sphere, creating synergies that organically opened doors to new professional opportunities. One effective strategy is leveraging shared challenges to build rapport and trust. For instance, during a major hurricane, my construction team and I helped both new and existing clients steer insurance claims and damage assessments. By offering support in these stressful scenarios, I built a network based on reliability and genuine concern, rather than transactional interactions. Additionally, I focus on creating narrative-driven content in my current writing role, positioning it as a platform to connect with like-minded professionals and clients. This storytelling approach not only showcases expertise but also resonates with people at a personal level-transcending what traditional golf course networking might achieve.I leverage the construction and remodeling projects my company handles to network creatively. At Herts Roofing & Construction, we organize open house days on some of our larger projects, inviting not just potential clients but suppliers, local contractors, and even hobbyist renovators. This approach has led to unexpected collaborations, such as joint ventures with other local businesses on multi-stage property developments. Beyond business boundaries, I participate in regional community service activities related to home rebuilding, especially post-disasters like Hurricane Ida. This outreach has been instrumental in forming personal connections with local residents and insurance professionals. The experience of working side-by-side fosters deep, trustful relationships that go beyond professional networking, making meaningful bonds in the community.
I've built professional relationships through creative and cultural events, such as art exhibitions, food tastings, or book clubs. For example, I attend local art galleries and museum openings where the atmosphere is casual, yet filled with intellectually stimulating conversations. These settings naturally lead to engaging discussions, often creating an opportunity to connect on deeper cultural or creative levels, which later transitions into professional relationships. Another approach I've found valuable is volunteering for community-based initiatives that align with my personal values. Volunteering at charity events, for instance, brings together people from different industries who share a commitment to a cause. This creates a shared sense of purpose, making the networking feel more authentic and less transactional. Plus, you often meet highly motivated individuals who are equally invested in making a difference.
As a marketing director in the guitar industry, I've found local jam sessions to be an incredible networking goldmine. Every Thursday, I host an open jam at a local music venue where business professionals who happen to be musicians come together to play. During breaks between sets, we naturally discuss our day jobs, leading to meaningful professional connections. The shared passion for music breaks down traditional networking barriers - there's something uniquely bonding about playing "Sweet Home Alabama" with a potential business partner or client. I've met tech CEOs, marketing executives, and entrepreneurs through these sessions. The relationships built feel more authentic because they're formed over a shared hobby rather than forced small talk. Some of our most successful business partnerships started with a conversation about guitar pedals or vintage amplifiers. The key is finding a common interest that brings people together naturally, where business connections can develop organically rather than feeling manufactured.
My favorite way to build relationships is through outdoor activities, especially local community bike rides. It might sound simple, but biking with a group of people brings out a different kind of energy. You're all out there, feeling the breeze, enjoying the open air, and pushing yourselves up hills together. It's not like a formal meeting where you sit across a table and try to impress each other. You're sharing a common experience, and that makes a big difference in how you connect with people. During the ride, conversations just flow naturally. It starts with light chatter about the route, the best trails around town, or even the latest gear. But as you keep pedaling, the topics deepen. Maybe you're riding alongside someone for a stretch, and you end up talking about what brought them to the community or the projects they're working on. It's not forced, and you get to know them as a person before you even touch on work or business. And when the ride slows down, like during a quick rest stop or just coasting for a bit, those chats often turn into something more substantial. You might find yourself discussing the challenges you're facing in your work, brainstorming ideas on the fly, or getting advice on things you've been stuck on. The best part is that no one's putting on a front. The shared effort of the ride has a way of leveling the playing field, no matter if you're riding with a CEO, a local artist, or someone just getting into their career. What I love about this is that it doesn't feel like networking at all. You're just sharing an experience, but you come away from it knowing people more deeply. And if there's ever an opportunity to collaborate or help each other out, it feels natural because you've already built that trust. It's a way of creating relationships that aren't transactional but based on real shared moments. For me, those are the connections that last the longest and make the biggest impact.
Networking and building professional relationships outside of traditional venues like the golf course can be both refreshing and effective. One approach that I've found particularly valuable is participating in local community service or volunteering events. By engaging in activities that align with shared values and causes, I've had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with other professionals in a more relaxed, purpose-driven environment. This not only allows for authentic connections but also aligns with my personal and professional commitment to social responsibility. Another non-traditional way I've built relationships is through industry-related workshops and skill-building retreats. These events often allow for more meaningful conversations and networking than traditional office settings because you're not only exchanging business ideas but also sharing personal growth experiences. I've found that this creates deeper bonds and a stronger sense of trust between peers. Joining or hosting casual meetups centered around shared interests-such as hiking, wine tasting, or book clubs-can also be incredibly effective. This less formal setting fosters real connections and mutual interests that naturally spill over into professional collaborations, helping to form relationships that are more personal and enduring than those made solely in office contexts.
I connect with other professionals in everyday settings-community events, family gatherings, and children's sports activities. Instead of introducing myself with a job title, I focus on explaining the solutions I provide to businesses. When someone at my son's baseball game asks what I do, I explain, "We create custom identification solutions-from metal tags to nameplates-that help aerospace, military, and industrial companies track their valuable equipment and assets. Our identification systems help prevent costly errors and ensure compliance." For me, this method works well in many casual settings. I've built valuable business relationships while attending neighborhood gatherings and meeting other parents at school functions. It is easier to have genuine conversations in this kind of environment. People remember and connect with how you can help solve their problems, not your job title. When you focus on value and genuine conversation in these everyday settings, professional relationships develop naturally.
One of the most rewarding experiences was ice driving in Sweden with other car enthusiasts. There is nothing like racing on a frozen lake at minus ten degrees, and the feeling cannot be replicated in an office setting. We enjoyed each other's company thanks to our common passion for cars, and post-ice activities over drinks further strengthened those ties. It also helped me realize the value of looking for networking activities that I would enjoy. Great interests generate great discussions and great connections, hardly a need to force anything or anyone. Another networking opportunity that was equally, or perhaps even more, transformative was the CEO Sleepout UK. The action was aimed at raising awareness of homelessness and offered guests the chance to meet UK CEOs drawn from across the sectors. The experience enlightened me to the fact that networking is a two-way street, for both doing business as well as advocating for important causes. For those seeking unique styles of networking, combine that with a social cause. Connecting through events that bring participants towards a singular vision helps strengthen relationships and leave meaningful connections that extend into careers.
I often network through volunteer work in community legal clinics, where I get to collaborate with other legal professionals and community leaders. This allows me to build authentic connections while contributing to meaningful causes. Book clubs focused on legal literature also serve as a great networking space, offering insight and shared interests with peers. Another method I find effective is attending art workshops or exhibitions, engaging in discussions with fellow attendees who share a passion for creativity. These environments foster a relaxed atmosphere conducive to forming genuine relationships. Collaborating on charity events, whether through organizing or participating, always leads to meeting individuals with aligned values. I also make it a point to attend public lectures or seminars about social justice, which attract a diverse group of professionals eager to share expertise. These activities provide valuable opportunities to network in settings that encourage authentic and sustainable connections.
Director, Marketing and Operations at Champion Distinctive Landscaping Design and Care
Answered a year ago
In my role as the Director of Marketing and Operations at Champion Distinctive Landscaping Design and Care, I've finded that one of the best ways to network is by engaging in community projects. A standout example was heading the change of the Millbrook Community Park. This project was initially done pro-bono, yet it massively expanded our professional network by involving local stakeholders, schools, and other community organizations, which generated valuable contacts and led to later collaborations. I often speak at industry conferences and host workshops like "From Backyard to Boardroom." These events not only allow me to share insights but also to connect with attendees on a meaningful level beyond the typical networking scenarios. One of my favorite strategies involves changing these sessions into interactive exchanges where participants solve real-time challenges, fostering relationships based on collaborative problem-solving. Additionally, I volunteer as a mentor for young women in landscaping and horticulture, which broadens my network organically. This mentorship not only enriches the careers of new entrants but opens up reciprocal professional opportunities as they advance. By engaging in these diverse activities outside traditional environments, I continually cultivate a broad and dynamic professional network.
Networking outside traditional environments is something I focus on frequently as an entrepreneur and avid traveler. One effective strategy I use is organizing travel-based networking experiences. I arrange small group trips or day outings where attendees have shared interests in travel and business. This setting naturally opens up opportunities for meaningful interactions and collaboration without the pressure of formal work events. For example, during a hiking trip in Colorado with fellow entrepreneurs, we exchanged business insights and ended up identifying potential partnerships. This approach not only provided a memorable experience but also strengthened our professional relationships in an authentic way. It's about creating an atmosphere where people feel relaxed and open to conversation beyond typical networking boundaries. I also engage in community service with other professionals through Versed Entrepreneur's annual charity walks. These initiatives not only help the community but also build trust and camaraderie among participants. It offers a genuine way to connect over a shared purpose, leading to stronger professional relationships that are aligned with personal values.
For me, networking means building real connections outside standard professional spaces. And my best decision was joining a book club. It might seem very unexpected, but it works. I'm part of a small local group, and while we never focus on work, our discussions flow into deeper conversations that stretch beyond the books. Truth is, when people share thoughts about stories, they naturally open up - something that rarely happens at formal networking events. A few years back, I met a woman in the group from a totally different industry. We hit it off talking about a novel we both loved. Fast forward, and she introduced me to someone who became a key client for us at KIS. The best part? None of it felt like traditional networking. We simply created bonds through shared interests, and organically found ways to help each other professionally. Throughout decades in the industry, I've learned networking shines when you drop the agenda. People spot genuine interest, and that authenticity sticks with them. It's wild how casually meeting to discuss books can spark meaningful professional relationships without even trying.
I left a high-paying investment banking job to build Rocket Alumni Solutions from the ground up, which forced me to find unique networking methods outside conventional corpotate settings. One effective approach for me was to host free workshops for school administrators to discuss their alumni engagement challenges. This not only provided valuable insights into their needs but also established us as thought leaders, resulting in a 30% increase in lead conversion rates. I often organized game nights and philanthropy days with partners and clients, which naturally fostered relationships outside of a business context. For instance, hosting trivia nights or volunteering at local events not only strengthened my network but also improved community ties, creating mutual benefits beyond work commitments. These informal settings broke down barriers and helped build genuine connections, which were pivotal in our expansion to over 500 schools.
Local meet-ups give tech founders like myself a great chance to network outside of conventional environments. Every few weeks, a group in my neighborhood plans casual coffee meetings. We talk about present projects, features we are working on, or any problems that have surfaced in this low-key, laid-back environment. We exchange successful tactics and pay attention to fresh ideas from others. Following advice from these conversations has made my offering better. For instance, I included an additional tool based on user comments received at a meet-up that raised sales and involvement. Face-to-face meetings with peers enable constructive dialogues that provide learning and possible development for all engaged in. Having fresh ideas outside of your own experience also helps. I have heard several ideas for organizing user comments or scaling customer service systems. Using fresh ideas has enabled me to bring elements of my company to another level. Scheduling frequent local meetings helps to promote ongoing education and community-wide cooperative possibilities. The laid-back vibe encourages receptivity to fresh possibilities.
I am Cody Jensen, the CEO of Searchbloom, an SEO and PPC marketing firm. In terms of building connections, LinkedIn has proven to be a difference maker. Instead of following traditional gatherings, I connect with others by having meaningful discussions on the internet. It's not just about sending connection requests-it's about genuinely interacting with posts, sharing insights, and asking meaningful questions. Some of my best professional relationships have come from consistently engaging with others' content or even hosting virtual meetups. Social media allows me to connect in a way that feels more natural and less forced than your typical networking event. The key is staying authentic and adding real value to the conversation where the most vital relationships are built.