AGCAREERS FOOD & AGRICULTURE CAREER GUIDE 22 VISUALIZE SUCCESS Before the event, picture yourself having a great conversation. It may sound simple, but visualizing a win can ease anxiety and set a positive tone. LEAD WITH YOUR STRENGTHS If you’re more comfortable listening than speaking, use that. Ask openended questions. People appreciate someone who genuinely takes an interest in what they have to say. Most importantly, remember that networking is a skill, not a personality trait. Like any skill, it improves with practice. STARTING THE CONVERSATION If you’ve ever stood in front of someone and drawn a blank, you’re not alone. Having a few conversation starters in your pocket can ease the tension and help spark meaningful discussions. Here are a few that work in almost any setting: • “What are you currently working on?” • “What do you enjoy most about your job or studies?” • “How did you get into this field?” • “What’s something exciting happening in your industry?” And just as important as knowing how to start a conversation is knowing how to exit one gracefully. If someone starts scanning the room, gives short responses or seems distracted, it may be time to move on. Try a polite exit like: • “It was great talking with you. I’m going to connect with a few more people before the event ends.” • “I’d love to stay in touch. Can we exchange contact info?” These transitions demonstrate respect for both your time and theirs, maintaining a professional tone. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT MATTERS MOST Networking doesn’t end when the event does. The follow-up is where the real connection is built. A simple message can turn a five-minute conversation into a long-term relationship. HERE’S HOW TO KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING: CONNECT ON LINKEDIN When you send a request, include a note: “Hi [Name], it was great to meet you at [event or context]. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic] and would love to stay in touch.” KEEP TRACK OF CONTACTS After the event, jot down who you met, what you talked about and any next steps. A small detail remembered weeks later can leave a strong impression. SEND A FOLLOW-UP EMAIL OR MESSAGE Reference something specific from your conversation. It shows authenticity and interest in continuing the connection. Whether you’re following up to ask for advice, share a resource or just say thanks, the effort matters. TIPS FOR NETWORKING LIKE A PRO Don’t cling to your crew: It’s tempting to stay with people you already know, but the point of networking is to expand your circle. Quality over quantity: One great conversation is more valuable than 10 surface-level chats. Be inclusive: If you’re standing in a group and notice someone nearby alone, invite them in. If you meet someone interesting, introduce them to others they might connect with. Always be prepared: Have a way to exchange contact information, such as business cards, a LinkedIn QR code, or even your email address in your phone’s notes app. MAKING NETWORKING PART OF YOUR ROUTINE The best networkers don’t wait for big events to happen. They build relationships year-round. Here’s how to build networking into your life: Be curious: Ask questions. Learn from people in different roles or sectors. Give before you get: Offer help, advice or encouragement. People remember those who add value. Stay engaged: Send a quick message when someone gets a new job, publishes something interesting or shares news. Small gestures add up. Remember, every conversation has potential. You never know when a simple exchange might lead to a job offer, a collaboration, or a lifelong friendship. ONE CONNECTION CAN CHANGE EVERYTHING Networking isn’t about being the most outgoing person in the room. It’s about being intentional, curious and open to connection. When you approach networking as an opportunity to learn, grow and support others, it stops feeling like a task — and starts becoming a habit worth keeping. PHOTOS: elenabsl – stock.adobe.com , Cetacons – stock.adobe.com START NETWORKING with www.agfuture.org.
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