This article modernizes ten practical networking communication skills for both physical and virtual settings. It emphasizes mental preparation, appropriate physical and digital readiness, friendly presence, mindful greetings (respecting comfort and cultural norms), eye contact, active listening, finding genuine common ground, maintaining a constructive tone, sincere compliments, and prompt personalized follow-up. The guidance is concise and actionable for professionals using a mix of in-person and online channels.
"If you build a network, you will have a bridge to wherever you want to go." - Harvey Mackay
Why networking is a communication skill
Networking is exchanging information, resources, and ideas to build relationships. Good networkers prepare, practice, and follow through. Like friendships, some connections are brief and others last. Strong communication makes the useful ones stick.
10 steps to power up your networking communication
1. Prepare mentally
Ask yourself: Why am I here? What do I want to learn or offer? Set 1-2 clear goals for the event and a single communication skill to practice (listening, concise introductions, or follow-up messaging).2. Prepare physically and digitally
Dress appropriately for the occasion. For virtual events, test your camera, microphone, and background. Have a digital contact method ready (QR card, LinkedIn profile, or a vCard). Business cards still work in person; add a digital option for hybrid settings.3. Lead with a friendly presence
Greet people with a smile and an open posture. A calm, welcoming demeanor lowers barriers and signals approachability.4. Offer an appropriate greeting
A firm, polite handshake remains common, but respect cultural norms and COVID-era preferences - some people prefer a verbal greeting or a nod. Mirror the other person's comfort level.5. Make mindful eye contact
Look people in the eye briefly as you speak. It shows attention and respect without staring; on video, look at the camera occasionally to create the same effect.6. Listen more than you talk
Ask open questions and listen actively. Aim to learn; use fewer "I" statements and more "you" and "we" phrasing. Repeat or summarize to show you heard them.7. Find a genuine connection
Look for shared interests - work, hobbies, community causes. Simple, sincere questions like "What are you working on now?" open the door to ongoing dialogue.8. Keep a positive, realistic tone
Be upbeat without dismissing real concerns. People gravitate toward constructive optimism and practical problem-solvers.9. Compliment and agree when sincere
Offer authentic praise and acknowledge common ground. Agreeing thoughtfully builds rapport faster than constant debate.10. Follow through quickly
Send a short, personalized message within 24-48 hours: reference where you met, a specific topic you discussed, and a next step. Connect on LinkedIn with a note, or add the contact to your preferred CRM or notes system.Final note
Be prepared, be sincere, listen well, and have fun. Networking is a practical blend of interpersonal habits and modern digital practices; with practice you'll communicate in ways that open doors.---
Author note: This article updates practical networking guidance originally shared by Dave Bedard. Current biographical details about the author (network size, media projects, and recent publications) may have changed since the original publication and should be verified if needed.
- Verify current biographical details for Dave Bedard (network size, media projects such as 'The Success Journey', and recent publications).