If you’re looking for a job or want to expand your network, networking in non-professional contexts might lead you in the right direction. Instead of, or in addition to, meeting connections in a professional setting—like formal networking events, on LinkedIn, or at business conferences—be open to meeting people at parties, weddings, cafés, workout classes, or volunteer activities. Why not stick with traditional methods? Because meeting people in your daily life can feel more organic and create lasting bonds, possibly leading to more future opportunities in your field.
Be Open
Out-of-context networking is just like making friends: the more open and genuinely interested in people you are, the better it will go. Start conversations with new people and be receptive when others engage with you. Remember, anyone could be a potential connection that might help you down the road. Consider approaching interactions with curiosity—ask questions that encourage others to share their stories. This not only builds rapport but also allows you to discover common interests that can strengthen your connection. A positive attitude goes a long way!
Where To Go
Identify places that people in your field frequent and start frequenting them as well. If there’s a popular bar for finance professionals, go there. Think outside the box about where to meet people in your field and ask your current contacts where to go. Also, if you are attending an event and you know a friend of a friend who works in your field is going to be there, make sure you introduce yourself.
Pay Attention to Detail
If you are talking to someone at a social gathering and their career is genuinely interesting, take notice of where they work and all the details they are sharing. Remember their name and jot it down to remember. If you are feeling bold, you could ask for their LinkedIn. But if you want to have more of a friendly relationship with them, you can ask for their phone number or another social media handle.
Have Something to Talk about
Knowing what’s going on in your industry is helpful for talking points when you meet someone who is working in the same field. If you are passionate about a certain issue regarding your field (that isn’t polarizing), bring it up. Knowing the news of your industry will also keep the conversation from becoming too technical.
Respect People’s Boundaries and Time
As this type of networking is not at a set place or time designated for networking, people may not want to talk about work. Treat out-of-context networking as a chance to make friends, with the added potential for professional connections. Gauge their interest in work-related topics and if they seem disinterested, pivot the conversation to something else.
Follow Up
Following up doesn’t have to be a formal email that says “thanks so much for talking with me.” You could invite them to an event, share an article about something related to your conversation, comment on their social media post, or ask to get a coffee with them. Make your follow-up simple and genuine, showing you were engaged in the conversation.
Combatting Awkwardness
Everyone who has ever spoken is bound to have had an awkward moment when a conversation stalls. When this happens, you can try pivoting the conversation to a new topic, using humor, asking them an open-ended question, or bringing in a third person. In casual venues, simply be yourself. If you can’t think of something to say, try sharing life experiences or stories that show who you are. If you feel like you have gotten everything you wanted out of the conversation, remember to get their contact information before making a graceful exit.
Embrace Informal Networking
Out-of-context networking offers a refreshing approach to building professional relationships. Remember, the goal is to foster relationships that could lead to future opportunities while enjoying the process of meeting new people. Each interaction is a chance to strengthen your network and make it more diverse and dynamic. With a little effort and the right mindset, you’ll find that these informal connections can become just as valuable as those made in more formal settings. So get out there, embrace the unexpected, and let your network grow!