15 Tips to Unlock the Power of Networking [by Seedblink]

You already know networking matters.

But most people still do it wrong.

To be fully honest - most people suck at networking.

They collect business cards, fire off empty LinkedIn connections, then wonder why their follow-ups go nowhere.

They collect cards. Spam DMs. Pitch too soon. Or worse - do nothing after a great first impression.

If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Most professionals were never taught how to network. We just kind of guessed. You know, guesswork doesn’t close deals.

But the people who win? They know networking isn’t about volume - it’s about connection. About memory. About value.

Here’s the truth:

Networking isn’t about who you know. It’s about who remembers you - and why.

The difference between someone who builds a referral empire and someone who fades into inbox purgatory?

They network with intention.

They follow principles. Not gimmicks.

They treat every introduction like the start of a real relationship - not a one-time transaction.

So, instead of giving you the usual “go to more events” advice, here are 15 real networking lessons that work in real life.

Real-World Tip from the SeedBlink Team

At a recent SeedBlink founders’ meetup, one of the biggest takeaways wasn’t just about funding. It was about how you communicate your value - clearly, credibly, and fast. Just like in networking, vague won’t cut it.

One killer quote from the event:

“I know” always trumps “I think.” Back up your gut with real data, and let your follow-ups tell your story.

This insight (and many more) comes straight from SeedBlink’s Book of Ambitious Founders - a must-read if you’re trying to pitch, partner, or persuade at a higher level.

Why are we mentioning this?

Because communication = connection. And connection = ROI. Tapni makes it easier to show up like a pro and follow up with purpose - whether you're meeting an investor, a client, or your next big partner.

So if you're serious about making networking your growth channel, don't sleep on this resource.

Get the eBook here and plug it into your pitch game.

(And if you pair these with Tapni’s tools, you’ll turn every moment into measurable ROI.)

Let’s dive in:

1. Stop faking interest - Get curious

You don’t need a fake smile or rehearsed elevator pitch.

What you need is real curiosity.

Ask questions like you mean them. Follow up with something personal. Let the other person feel like the main character in your conversation. That’s how you build instant trust - and people remember that.

2. Ask questions that unlock stories

Forget “what do you do?” That question is a dead end.

Ask:

• “What’s something you’re excited about right now?”
• “What got you into that field?”
• “What’s one mistake you’ve learned from recently?”

These open real conversations - and that’s where relationships start.

3. Use their name often - and on purpose

This one’s straight from Dale Carnegie, and it still works.

A person’s name is the most powerful word you can say in a conversation. It makes people feel seen. And when you follow up days later and still remember their name? You instantly stand out from 99% of people they meet.

4. Give value - before they ask

The best connectors are givers first.

That means sending an intro. Sharing a useful article. Offering help without expecting anything back. It builds social capital faster than any pitch ever could.

Pro tip: Drop your Tapni digital business card with a bonus link to a free resource. That one link can turn a conversation into a conversion.

5. Celebrate people. Loudly. Publicly

Everyone wants to feel important. Few people make others feel that way.

Congratulate someone on a win. Shout them out on LinkedIn. Hype their product launch. When you become someone who notices others, they don’t forget you.

6. Expand beyond your echo chamber

Your network shouldn’t just reflect you - it should challenge you.

Talk to people outside your industry. Connect with folks at different career stages. New ideas come from new circles. New deals do too.

7. Follow up like your reputation depends on it (It does.)

Don’t just follow up to “stay in touch.” Follow up with context. Follow up with value.

“Hey John, I remembered you mentioned [X], and I thought this article might help.” That’s how you stay top of mind.

Tapni pro move: Tag your leads by event or interest, and automate the first follow-up. Instant credibility.

8. Master your body language.

We decide in the first 7 seconds whether we trust someone.

So ditch the crossed arms. Keep eye contact. Smile. Lean in slightly. These are micro-signals that say: “I’m here. I care. You matter.”

9. Make your story unforgettable.

Don’t lead with your job title. Lead with your why.

Instead of saying “I’m a software sales manager,” try:

“I help tech startups close more deals without burning out their sales team.”

That’s specific. That’s memorable. That sticks.

10. Use LinkedIn - but don’t live on it.

It’s a great networking tool. But it’s not a replacement for human connection.

Think of LinkedIn as a bridge, not a destination. The real magic happens in voice notes, Zoom calls, and in-person events.

11. Stay obsessed with learning.

The best networkers are learners first. They read. They ask great questions. They follow what’s trending.

Why? Because it makes every conversation richer. And people gravitate toward those who bring value without trying to sell something.

12. Get in more rooms. Period.

You can’t network from the couch.

Go to that event, even if you’re tired. Speak on that panel, even if you're nervous. Say yes to opportunities - even the awkward ones.

The right room changes everything.

13. Drop the mask. Be real.

You don’t need to be polished 24/7.

In fact, showing some personality is your superpower. Don’t be afraid to be direct, funny, or passionate. That’s what makes you relatable - and magnetic.

14. Positivity is a magnet. Use it.

The energy you bring into the room matters.

When you’re optimistic - even when things are messy - it makes people want to be around you. That energy turns handshakes into partnerships.

15. Mentor someone. Ask for mentorship.

If you want deeper relationships, build bridges in both directions.

Offer your time to someone earlier in the journey. Ask for advice from someone who’s ahead. This two-way street creates trust - and a network that actually works.

Make Every Interaction Count - with Tapni

Here’s the real flex: you don’t need to be at 100 events a year to win at networking.

You need the right habits, the right mindset, and the right tool to back it all up.

That’s where Tapni comes in.

Instantly share your digital profile with a single tap ✅

Track every interaction, lead, and follow-up ✅

Sync contacts into your CRM, automate follow-ups, and never miss a deal again ✅

We’re not just replacing paper business cards.

We’re helping you build a network that pays dividends.

🚀 Start building your Tapni profile now

Your network is only as strong as your system.

Let’s make it unbreakable.