Networking without the awkwardness

Lead with curiosity. Asking people what they are working on, and listening to the answer, is a far easier opener than introducing yourself with a pitch.

Think of networking as something small and regular rather than a big event. A short chat by the coffee machine or after a meeting builds relationships over time.

Follow up. A quick message after a good conversation, with something useful like a link or an introduction, turns a pleasant chat into a lasting connection.