Networking
Networking does not have to mean crowded events, forced small talk or collecting hundreds of contacts. It can be a few genuine conversations, an online connection, a shared activity, a warm introduction or staying in touch with someone whose experience is useful to you.
Try words such as confidence, online, conversation, follow up, anxiety, privacy or events.
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Learn About Work
Hear what roles, industries and workplaces are really like from people with direct experience.
Find Support
Meet mentors, peers, employers, advocates and people who understand your goals.
Hear About Opportunities
Some jobs, courses, projects and volunteer roles are shared through personal and professional networks.
You do not have to enjoy large events. Pick approaches that suit your communication preferences, sensory needs and available energy.
Everyday & Community Spaces
Courses, volunteering, community projects, libraries, meetups, workshops, support groups and conversations with friends or family.
Professional Spaces
Industry events, employer open days, career fairs, professional associations, online platforms, alumni groups and workplace development programmes.
Use these as written or adapt them until they sound like your own voice.
Learning About a Field
“How did you get started in this kind of work?”
Understanding a Role
“What do you enjoy most about your job?”
Asking for Guidance
“What advice would you give someone who is starting out?”
Ending Warmly
“It was lovely meeting you. Would you be comfortable if I connected with you online?”
Show Interest Your Way
You can nod, ask a follow-up question or reflect back something the person said. Eye contact is not the only sign that you are listening.
Allow Pauses
You do not need to fill every silence. A short pause can give both people time to think.
Make a Note Afterwards
Record the person's name, what you discussed and any action you agreed to take.
Create a Clear Profile
Use a simple headline that describes your interests, skills or the kind of opportunity you are exploring.
Personalise Requests
Add a sentence explaining where you met or why you would value connecting.
Join Useful Conversations
Comment thoughtfully, share useful information and ask genuine questions rather than posting only when you need something.
Protect Your Privacy
Review privacy settings and avoid sharing sensitive personal information with people you do not know or trust.
Send a Short Message
Thank them for their time and mention one useful or enjoyable part of the conversation.
Complete Any Promised Action
Send the link, CV, information or introduction you said you would provide.
Stay in Touch Naturally
Share something relevant occasionally, congratulate them on a milestone or reconnect when you have a genuine reason.
Before
Choose one small goal, prepare a few phrases, check the venue and arrange transport. Ask about support options if you need them.
During
Take breaks, use quieter areas, hold a notebook or drink if that helps, and leave when your energy is getting low.
After
Allow recovery time. Write down one thing that went well before analysing anything that felt awkward.
Remember
A successful event might mean speaking to one person, learning one useful fact or simply showing up.
Checklist Cat
Prepare one small goal, one introduction, two questions and your practical plan before an event or conversation.
Finn Fox
If one networking style feels uncomfortable, try another. Online, one-to-one, shared activities and warm introductions all count.
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Do I have to attend large networking events?
No. One-to-one conversations, online groups, volunteering, courses and introductions through people you trust can all be networking.
What if I do not know what to say?
Prepare one short introduction and two questions. You can also focus on listening and asking follow-up questions.
Do I have to disclose that I am neurodivergent?
Disclosure is personal and context-dependent. You can decide what is relevant to share, or simply describe the communication or access support that helps you participate.
How soon should I follow up?
A short message within a few days can be useful, but there is no need for a perfect timetable. A genuine and respectful message matters more than speed.
What if a conversation feels awkward?
Awkward moments happen. They do not erase your effort or mean the whole interaction failed. Notice one thing that worked and try a different approach next time if needed.