I work with many people who feel uncomfortable with traditional networking. It often feels transactional, forced, or premature. They don’t yet have a clear ask, or they believe they don’t really have a network to start with, so the whole idea creates pressure.
In those early stages, I usually recommend something that has worked wonders for me and for many of my clients, and that I genuinely love doing.
I call it ‘soft networking’, or simply, ‘meet new amazing people’
It starts with putting yourself out there.
Being active.
Meeting people.
Going to events.
Reading about inspiring humans.
Or revisiting people who crossed your path earlier in life.
Identify those amazing humans, it could be:
📱 A content creator sharing ideas you deeply resonate with
🎓 An old professor who changed the way you see the world
🤝 Someone you met at a networking event last week who really stuck with you
✍️ An author or journalist whose work inspires you consistently
🚀 A friend of a friend building something bold with their startup
🔄 An old colleague who courageously pivoted their career
Now, BE BOLD, send them a message: Don’t use AI! just a short, human and specific note.
Include three simple things:
1️⃣ Context: How do you know them or how did you come across them?
2️⃣ Connection: What do you genuinely admire about them? Be specific. What triggered you?
3️⃣ Offer: A gentle, open invitation for a 20 minute coffee chat to get to know each other.
And do it, not because you need something, just because you are curious, and you want to learn. Because you value connecting with inspiring people who share your view of the world.
When there is no hidden agenda, the pressure disappears, for you and for them. You will see that most of them will respond, it will be a nice conversation, and even they will be thankful because they also like to talk about what they do and what impact it has on other people.
Some of the most meaningful people in my network came from this approach.
They became business partners, opened doors to speaking gigs, workshops, sponsors, projects…And in many cases, simply good friends and inspiring memories.
Plant the seeds. The rest will grow 🌱
