Networking has a reputation for being uncomfortable or inauthentic. It can feel a bit forced if you’re thinking of it as handing out business cards or making small talk for the sake of it — but when approached with the right mindset, it becomes a powerful tool for genuine connection and growth.
Discover our three mindsets for more meaningful networking so it feels less like a performance — and more like an engaging, authentic exchange for both parties.

Our Top Tips for Meaningful Networking

• Ask open-ended questions to spark real conversation
• Consider the value you can offer others, not just what you can gain
• Focus on a higher purpose – how your connections or knowledge can benefit a broader cause

1. The Host Mindset

This mindset is about showing up with generosity: rather than focusing on what you need, consider the relationships, insights, and knowledge you can offer others. This approach can make networking feel less self-promotional and more selfless.
• Listen actively and identify needs: Pay attention to people’s goals, interests or challenges. Can you offer a useful insight?
• Be a connector: If you can’t help directly, think about who in your network might be able to.
• Share knowledge: Don’t underestimate your contributions, even if you’re in a more ‘junior’ position; even recent learnings or new tools can be valuable to others.

💬 Try asking: “What brings you here today, and what are you hoping to get out of the event?”

2. The Learner Mindset

Be interested, not just interesting. Listening to other people’s experiences, values, and identities can help them feel included.
• Ask open-ended questions and follow up: Show genuine interest by listening closely and continuing the conversation.
• Find common ground: When networking is driven by shared interests, it can feel more authentic and help establish meaningful relationships.
• Seek diverse perspectives: Meaningful networking isn’t just about finding common ground; it’s also about broadening your view. Even if you don’t immediately relate to what someone is saying, their unique insights can deepen your understanding of an issue.

💬 Try asking: “What’s something you’re currently learning or passionate about exploring – even outside of work?”

3. The Higher-Purpose Mindset

Looking beyond how networking will benefit you personally, and concentrating on how it can benefit your organisation, cause, or others in your network, can help you overcome feelings of discomfort.
• Identify your collective goals: Before you even step into a networking situation, consider what impact you want to have. Is it to raise awareness for a cause? Find collaborators for a community project? The clearer your collective goal, the easier it is to focus your interactions.
• Advocate for your organisation or cause: Speak about your work as an invitation to collaborate, not a self-promotion.
• Solve problems together: Use conversations to explore how collective efforts can drive change.

💬 Try asking: “What’s a challenge you think our industry or community is currently facing?”

Practice, Practice, Practice: Networking at Events

Networking is like any other skill; it gets easier the more you do it. Events and conferences are the perfect place to put these mindsets into action and build your confidence.
The Australian Women’s Leadership Symposiums are a powerful opportunity to connect and grow your professional network. Why not try one of these mindsets during the networking sessions at our Symposiums or at your next industry event?

You might be surprised by the possibilities that unfold when you approach networking with curiosity, openness, and purpose. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel—and the more meaningful your connections will become.

Now that you know how to have more meaningful networking conversations – which mindset will you try first?

Further Reading

theconversation.com/networking-an-opportunity-or-an-obstacle-for-women-225377

www.weforum.org/stories/2016/09/how-to-overcome-your-aversion-to-networking/

hbr.org/2016/05/learn-to-love-networking