Post Written by Vasily Alekseenko

They say your network is your net worth, and from experience, I’ve found that’s definitely true. But networking isn’t just about showing up—it’s about being intentional. Here’s my approach to making the most of networking events, whether it’s a casual meetup or a major conference, to create connections that actually count.

1. Prepare, But Keep It Genuine

Networking isn’t about selling; it’s about making connections. Before going to an event, understand the type of people who’ll be there. Is it full of investors, potential customers, or founders like you? This will shape your approach. Also, have a concise elevator pitch ready—think thirty seconds max—that covers who you are, what you do, and a memorable detail about your achievements or current goals. But hold back on pitching right away. Let them talk first, ask questions, and genuinely listen. Tailor your pitch to align with the conversation, making it feel natural.

2. Starting Conversations: Simple Works

Icebreakers can be simple but effective. Ask easy questions like, “What do you think of the event?” or “What time does it end?” It doesn’t matter if you know the answer; people are generally happy to help and chat. If you’re in a group where no one talks and it feels awkward, try an icebreaker like, “What did everyone want to be when they grew up?” It’s lighthearted and can quickly turn strangers into a group that feels connected.

3. Making it Work for Introverts and Those with ADHD

For introverts or people with ADHD, networking events can feel overwhelming. One trick is to bring a friend. Having someone familiar by your side can make it easier to engage in conversations. If you’re nervous about starting conversations, remember that practice is key—even the most successful public speakers were once uncomfortable at events like these. The more you do it, the better it feels. Also, if you know you struggle with remembering details, jot down a few notes after meeting someone to keep track of key points for follow-ups.

4. Conferences: Do Your Homework and Find the ‘Connectors’

At bigger conferences, where time is short, and people are moving fast, preparation is everything. Research the speakers and key attendees. Read their articles, look up their interests, and have a few conversation points ready. If you meet them, refer to something specific they’ve posted or said—this shows you’re genuinely interested, not just there to get something from them.

Look for the “connectors” in the crowd—the people who seem to know everyone and are always introducing people around. These are often natural extroverts who love making connections. Introduce yourself, show interest in them, and if there’s a genuine connection, they’re often happy to connect you with others.

5. Take Advantage of Breaks for Quick Conversations

During conference breaks, or when you are in a coffee line, use the downtime to meet people casually. Ask about their thoughts on the session or their experiences at similar events. These are easy entry points that can lead to more meaningful conversations.

And if there’s a panel, don’t hesitate to ask questions. This is an opportunity to introduce yourself briefly to the room. When asking a question, start with your name, your company, and a quick note on what you do. This gives everyone in the room a sense of who you are and can lead to people approaching you afterward.

6. Follow Up and Invest in ‘Lines,’ Not Just ‘Dots’

After any event, follow up promptly. Mention where you met and something memorable from your conversation. Add a unique detail about yourself to stand out—maybe you speak multiple languages or have an interesting side project. This helps jog people’s memory, especially at larger events where they’ve likely met dozens of people.

Remember, people invest in lines, not dots. Each point of contact—each “dot”—you have with someone over time, like meeting them at an event, following up, and reconnecting later, eventually forms a line. The longer and more consistent this line becomes, the stronger the relationship. Whether you’re dealing with investors who want to see commitment over time or people who genuinely want to help, these continuous connections are what turn acquaintances into valuable allies.

Networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about building relationships. Start with genuine interest, be prepared, and follow up thoughtfully. Whether you’re at a monthly meetup or a massive conference, these steps will help you turn networking into one of the most valuable tools in your founder journey.

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