From Awkward to Authentic: How to Make Networking Actually Work for You ✅

“Your Network is Your Net Worth.” — Porter Gale

Introduction:

Let’s be honest—networking can feel awkward.

You walk into a room full of strangers, wonder who to talk to, and hope you don’t come off as desperate or salesy.

But networking doesn’t have to be weird.

Done right, it’s one of the most powerful tools for growing your business, building opportunities, and deepening relationships.

At Verley Group, we believe that relationships are the answer to every business or life challenge. That’s why we host a free monthly networking event in Knightdale at Reno’s — every first Tuesday from 6–8 PM — to make real, meaningful connections easier than ever.

If you want to take the awkwardness out of networking, here are 6 ways to build authentic relationships and start turning connections into opportunity. 👊

1. You’re Focused on Getting, Not Giving

Most people show up to networking events thinking, “What can I get out of this?”

That energy pushes people away. It’s obvious — and it’s forgettable.

The Fix:

Flip the script. Give value first.

Make introductions, offer resources, ask good questions, and be generous. Giving builds trust. Trust builds opportunity.

2. You Only Reach Out When You Need Something

If your first message in years includes a request, you’re doing it wrong.

Relationships aren’t built overnight — they’re built consistently.

The Fix:

Treat your network like an insurance policy. “Pay the premium” by staying in touch, sharing something helpful, or celebrating wins with others long before you need to ask for help.

3. You’re a Bagel

You know the type — people standing shoulder-to-shoulder in tight circles that are impossible to break into.

The Fix:

Be a croissant.

Open your body language. Make space. Welcome others into your conversations. A small physical shift can change the entire tone of the room — and make you instantly more approachable.

4. You Think It’s About Volume, Not Intention

Collecting 30 business cards in an evening doesn’t mean you’ve built relationships.

It means you’ve been busy.

The Fix:

Focus on the right connections.

Before the event, get clear on who you want to meet and why. After the event, follow up with those people thoughtfully. One great contact is better than 50 random ones.

5. You Don’t Know What to Say

Stuck in “So, what do you do?” mode? That question is overused — and so are the boring answers that follow.

The Fix:

Use a simple structure like:

“I help [who] do [what] so they can [benefit].”

It invites curiosity, sparks real conversation, and opens the door to deeper connection.

6. You’re Forgetting the Follow-Up

Real relationships don’t happen at the event — they happen after.

The Fix:

Schedule time the next day to follow up. Send a quick message. Reference your conversation. Su never make that work.ggest a coffee or Zoom chat. Relationships grow when you water them — not when you collect and forget them.

Other Resources to Help You Network Like a Pro

Start your networking checklist:

✅ Lead with value, not your pitch

✅ Be a croissant, not a bagel

✅ Set clear goals before every event

✅ Follow up within 24–48 hours

✅ Reconnect with old contacts regularly

✅ Keep your network warm — even when you don’t need it

Conclusion:

Networking doesn’t have to feel like small talk and sales pitches.

When done right, it’s about building a human ecosystem of support, referrals, and shared value.

Start by giving. Stay consistent. And always follow up.

Ready to put it into practice?

Join us for Knightdale Networking Night at Rudino’s — every first Tuesday from 6–8 PM.

Let’s build real relationships — together.