When I first started in sales, I thought networking meant collecting as many business cards as possible and firing off a dozen follow-up emails the next morning. I quickly learned that wasn’t it at all. Networking is less about numbers and more about building genuine relationships. It’s about walking into a room not with the goal of “What can I get?” but “Who can I help?” That mindset shift is powerful—it takes the pressure off and allows conversations to be authentic instead of forced.

The first step for any new salesperson is to be curious, not convincing. Ask people about their work, their challenges, and their goals. Listen—really listen—to their answers without rushing to pitch your product or service. The more you understand their world, the more you’ll find natural opportunities to add value. Remember, the best networkers don’t sell in the first conversation—they connect, learn, and plant seeds for future opportunities.

Consistency is where most beginners drop the ball. Networking isn’t a one-off event; it’s an ongoing process. Follow up regularly, but do it in a way that feels personal. Share an article that reminded you of a conversation you had. Invite them to a webinar or industry meetup. Congratulate them on a recent accomplishment. These small, thoughtful touches keep you on their radar without feeling like spam. Over time, these actions build trust—and trust is the currency of sales.

Finally, invest in the right rooms. Not every networking opportunity is worth your time, especially when you’re new. Seek out industry-specific groups, local business events, or even online communities where your ideal clients or strategic partners gather. You’ll gain far more from deep relationships in the right circles than shallow connections in random ones. Networking done well isn’t about playing a numbers game—it’s about showing up as someone people want to know, trust, and eventually, do business with.

If you want, I can also make you a version of this blog in a story format so it reads like your first year in sales. That would make it even more relatable and engaging. Would you like me to do that?