10 Non-Awkward Ways to Make Professional Connections

I’ve lost count of how many networking events I’ve left with a free pen, a half-eaten cookie, and absolutely zero meaningful connections. If you’ve ever stood awkwardly by the coffee table, fake-checking your phone while mentally rehearsing your elevator pitch, you’re not alone.

Professional networking is one of those things everyone tells you is essential—but no one tells you how to do in a way that doesn’t feel like you're pretending to be someone else. And frankly, I’m not into schmoozy small talk or collecting business cards like they’re Pokémon. I want conversations that feel natural, mutually beneficial, and—dare I say—genuinely enjoyable.

This guide is for anyone who wants to connect professionally without the forced smiles or robotic pitches. These are strategies that work in the real world—on LinkedIn, at conferences, on video calls, or even in line at the airport—without the awkwardness that usually comes with “networking.”

Takeaways

• Build trust through authentic, low-pressure conversations.
• Make small, consistent efforts instead of one-time networking pushes.
• Use shared interests or mutual connections as natural openers.
• Online platforms are tools—use them strategically, not passively.
• Focus on giving, not just getting.

1. Start with Curiosity, Not an Agenda

One of the biggest mindset shifts I made was this: approach people like you’re interested, not like you’re trying to be interesting.

It changes everything.

Instead of thinking, “How can this person help me?”, I ask myself, “What can I learn from them?” or “What are they passionate about?” Genuine curiosity goes a long way. People can tell when you're just waiting for your turn to talk—or when you're truly paying attention.

Ask thoughtful questions that invite depth without getting too personal:

• “What’s something you’re excited about working on right now?”
• “How did you get into your field?”
• “What’s something you’ve learned recently that surprised you?”

These openers often lead to natural, insightful conversations. You don’t need to pitch yourself—just listen, learn, and respond like a real human being.

2. Use the “One-Liner Follow-Up” Method

So you meet someone interesting on a panel, in a meeting, or even over DMs. Great. Now what?

The key to avoiding awkwardness is keeping your follow-up short and thoughtful. You don’t need a long essay. One sentence is plenty:

• “Loved your insight on X—would love to hear more about your work sometime.”
• “Just wanted to say thanks again for your time on [topic], that really stuck with me.”

This makes it easier for them to respond—and opens the door to future conversation without pressuring anyone. It’s the low-stakes way of saying, “Hey, I see you. And I appreciate what you brought to the table.”

3. Leverage LinkedIn—But Please, Skip the Cold Pitch

I have a love-hate relationship with LinkedIn. It’s full of brilliant people—but also full of sales-y connection requests with zero context. “Hi, I think we could find synergies…” No, thank you.

Here’s how to do it better:

• Customize your connection note. Mention something specific—an article they shared, a talk they gave, or a mutual interest. (“I really enjoyed your recent post about workplace culture—it gave me a lot to think about.”)
• Engage before you connect. Comment thoughtfully on a post, then send a follow-up message. It feels less transactional and more natural.
• Don’t ask for anything right away. Give the relationship space to grow.

Networking isn’t dating—but it’s still weird to propose a partnership before saying hello.

4. Treat Conversations Like Collaborations

Instead of going into a conversation with a “What can I get?” mindset, try “What could we create?” This simple reframe makes every interaction feel more collaborative and less transactional.

It also shifts the energy. You’re not just trying to extract value, you’re exploring shared ground. And that opens the door to introductions, ideas, or even co-creating something down the line.

You might say:

• “I’ve been thinking about X lately—curious to hear your take.”
• “You mentioned you’re working on Y—how can I support that?”

This gives the other person room to engage in a meaningful way—and it positions you as someone who brings value.

5. Find Shared Experiences Outside of Work

Some of the best connections I’ve made weren’t forged at conferences or formal mixers—they happened during volunteer events, alumni panels, book clubs, or even group fitness classes.

Why? Because shared context lowers the pressure.

You’re already there for a common reason, so the conversation starts off natural:

• “What made you want to join this?”
• “Have you done this kind of event before?”

From there, you can explore shared interests, values, or industry overlaps. It’s less about forced introductions and more about organic connection. Plus, it’s easier to stay in touch after—you have a reason to check in.

6. Be the First to Offer Help

Offering value without asking for anything in return builds trust fast.

This might look like:

• Sharing a relevant job opening with someone you just met
• Recommending a podcast episode that relates to their interests
• Introducing them to someone in your network who aligns with their goals

It signals that you’re generous, observant, and engaged—and that you’re not just in it for yourself. This may sound overly altruistic, but it's strategic too. Reciprocity often follows generosity.

7. Ask Better Questions During Events

If you're attending a conference or webinar, don’t default to “So what do you do?” or “Where are you based?” Those questions don’t go far.

Instead, try:

• “What inspired you to attend this event?”
• “What’s a challenge you’re working through right now?”
• “Was there a session or speaker that really landed for you?”

These open up a deeper level of conversation. And they give the other person a chance to talk about something real—which, ironically, makes them more likely to remember you, too.

8. Make Micro-Connections at Work

We often overlook the opportunity to build strong professional ties within our existing workplaces. Not just with your immediate team—but across departments, locations, or roles.

Here’s how to do it without being weird:

• Join cross-functional meetings with curiosity, not just obligation.
• Use Slack or internal chat tools to give public praise or thoughtful follow-ups.
• Set up a casual 20-minute coffee chat with a new colleague—no agenda, just curiosity.

These micro-connections matter. They make collaboration easier and open the door to future opportunities within your current org (which, by the way, is often the most powerful kind of networking you can do).

9. Be Mindful of Timing and Tone

This isn’t talked about enough, but it matters: good timing makes all the difference. If someone just launched a major project or changed jobs, it may not be the best moment to reach out asking for a call. Similarly, if your tone is too formal, it can feel stiff; too casual, and it risks being unprofessional.

A few things that help:

• Mirror their tone. If they’re warm and informal, it’s okay to respond in kind. If they’re buttoned-up, dial your tone accordingly.
• Acknowledge context. “I know your team just wrapped up a big launch—congrats! When you’re settled, I’d love to connect.”

It shows respect for their time and priorities, which builds credibility.

10. Keep Showing Up (Even When Nothing “Big” Happens)

Not every connection leads to a job offer, partnership, or instant collaboration. That’s okay. Stay in the habit.

Comment on people’s posts. Send the occasional note. Celebrate their wins. The quiet consistency of staying in touch makes a bigger impact than any one-time networking push. Think of it like tending a garden. Not every seed blooms immediately, but the ones that do often grow into something meaningful.

And remember—people change jobs, roles, and industries. That intern you chatted with two years ago? They might be hiring next year. You never know where relationships will lead.

Connection Over Collection

The best professional connections don’t feel like networking. They feel like conversations you want to continue. They’re grounded in mutual respect, curiosity, and value—not flashy intros or perfect timing.

You don’t need to be “on” all the time or know all the right people. You just need to start small, show up with genuine interest, and play the long game.

Make it a habit, not a hustle. That’s how trust is built.