Networking for People Who Hate Networking

If the word “networking” makes you cringe, you’re definitely not alone. A lot of college students feel like networking is just pretending to be confident while handing out business cards or sending awkward messages on LinkedIn. But the truth is, networking isn’t about being perfect or outgoing. It’s about connecting with people who inspire you, teach you something new, or might one day help open a door for you.

Think of it less like networking and more like relationship building. You already do it every day without realizing it when you help a classmate study, talk to a professor after class, or meet someone through a student organization. Those are real, genuine connections, and they matter just as much as formal networking events. The key is to focus on quality, not quantity. You don’t need a massive network. You just need meaningful relationships that grow naturally over time.

Start small. If you’re shy, begin by talking to people you already have something in common with. After a presentation, say something like “I liked your point about” or “I’m also interested in that topic.” It might feel small, but that’s how professional relationships actually start, through shared interests and curiosity. If someone gives a guest talk you enjoyed, send a short thank you email or LinkedIn message explaining what you learned from it. Most people appreciate the effort and remember it later.

Social media can also make networking easier. You don’t need to post all the time, but try engaging with content that interests you. Comment on a post from a company you like or share an article related to your major with a short caption about why you found it interesting. That kind of activity shows initiative and helps you stand out without feeling fake.

The biggest secret is this: networking works best when you stop trying to network. Be yourself. Be kind. Be curious. People can tell when you’re being genuine, and that is what makes connections last. The goal isn’t to impress everyone. It’s to build a circle of people who respect you, believe in you, and can grow alongside you. Once you realize that, networking feels less like an obligation and more like an opportunity.