Have you ever stopped for a moment and thought, “Why do we need network support as women?” It’s because too often, we walk into spaces where decisions are made and realise… we’re the only woman there. And when you finally want to make a move or ask for guidance, you’re left wondering how to do networking beyond a list of ex-team members and a dry LinkedIn inbox. It’s a real headache but it doesn’t have to be.
But here’s the deal: personal networking doesn’t have to feel forced, fake, or like some corporate-level chess game. It’s about building networking that aligns with who you are—and who you’re becoming.
Before we talk networking, let’s get your financial foundation sorted. Because no matter how well-connected you are, if your money life is messy, it will get in the way. Need a place to start? Lxme is an investment platform designed for women. It’s safe, simple, and built for goals that matter—like growing your income, funding your biz idea, or finally quitting that job you hate. Now, back to building a powerful professional network.
First: Define Your Why
How to build a network starts with asking yourself, “Why do I need one?”
Do you want to switch careers? Start your own business? Get promoted? Find collaborators? Mentors?
Without a purpose, networking feels like just another assignment. With one, it becomes focused, and honestly, kind of exciting. Write it down. Be honest. Even if your reason is “I want to earn more money.” That’s valid.
Improve Your Online Presence
You don’t need to post daily. But you do need to show up. Start by updating your LinkedIn bio to reflect your current voice, not the one from 2017. If you’re on Instagram and your work has a visual side—start sharing. Build in public.
When it comes to personal networking, your digital self matters. People look you up before messaging, recommending, or hiring you. Give them something to say yes to.
Oh, and please—no “aspiring” this or “trying to” that. Own your title. You’re not a “budding” founder. You are a founder.
Start With What You Have
A lot of women think how to do networking means reaching out to people with 200k followers or blue ticks. You’re missing the gold in your own phonebook.
That ex-colleague who’s now a hiring manager. That school friend who works in HR. That cousin who just started her startup.
Make a list of people who already know you and might help you grow in the direction you want. Reach out. Be clear, polite, and kind—but ask. And keep showing up.
Build, Don’t Beg
Here’s the thing: building networking is not about asking for help all the time. It’s about being useful. Share job openings. Congratulations wins. Send resources. Hype up your girls when they launch something.
Give more than you get, and one day, you’ll realise your network is working for you behind your back—in the best way. And if you have a network and want to empower them, join Lxme’s Mentor Program, a program where they can become financially empowered and you get rewarded.
Create Safe Circles
Sometimes, we just need to be in rooms where we don’t have to explain ourselves. Where no one’s surprised we’re ambitious and soft. Smart and sarcastic. That’s why women-led spaces matter.
Platforms like SheThePeople, HerMoney Talks, and Lxme offer space for real talk, genuine growth, and yes—even investor tips for those of us juggling our own thing on the side.
Because guess what? It’s not just about who you know. It’s also about how solid you feel while you’re building. Financial confidence makes us better connectors. Period.
Follow-Ups Are Smart!
Met someone at an event? Slide into their inbox within 72 hours. Keep it simple:
“Hey, loved what you said about XYZ. Let’s stay in touch?”
Done.
Networking isn’t one big gesture. It’s a series of small, consistent ones. A comment on their post. A WhatsApp check-in. A coffee invite three months later.
How to build a network is really about being the kind of person people want to hear from again.
Protect Your Energy
Not every contact is worth keeping. Not every “opportunity” deserves your time. And not everyone who says “let’s collaborate” means it.
Learn to read the room. Set boundaries. Don’t spread yourself thin just to maintain a list of names.
Bring Money Into It (Yes, You Have To)
We avoid this part—but the truth is, financial wellbeing plays a huge role in your networking confidence. You show up differently when your bills are paid, your SIPs are running, and you know your emergency fund is sorted. Did you know you can start building your emergency fund through a fun savings challenge? 500+ women have taken and loved it! – check out the 5k emergency fund savings challenge
Before you throw money at a fancy online course or book a flight for a networking summit—pause. Ask yourself: is your financial base ready?
If it’s not, here’s your soft landing: Invest for your Goals with Lxme’s safe and secured Investment Platform for women. You’ll thank yourself later.
So, Why Do We Need Network?
Because women who know people get paid more, promoted faster, and are more likely to start (and scale) their businesses.
How to do networking isn’t about being fake or loud. It’s about showing up as your full self, building slowly, and having the courage to reach out and reach back.
If you take one thing from this blog, let it be this: the network you build today is the safety net, cheer squad, and opportunity engine of tomorrow. Start with one conversation. The rest will follow.
FAQs
What platforms are most effective for women to grow professional connections?
If LinkedIn feels like a cringe party where you’re the only one not in on the joke, you’re not alone. But it can work—when you’re real, active, and don’t play small. Pair that with platforms built by and for women—like SheThePeople, HerMoneyTalks, and Lxme’s investment community where women talk about growth, goals, and support. And that’s the kind of energy you need when building a strong, trusted network.
How do I approach networking without feeling awkward or salesy?
You need to show up with clarity and kindness, that’s the main thing. Start with shared interests. Celebrate that promotion. Slide into her DMs with a “Hey, your post made me think…” message. We’re not trying to charm our way into opportunities—we’re building mutual respect.
What are some follow-up strategies that help nurture new connections?
The “nice to meet you” message should always have a follow up story. Did something they say stick with you? Did you try a tool they mentioned? Go back with warmth and context. Follow their work, cheer them on, and let your relationship breathe. A good network isn’t built in one Zoom call—it grows over time.
How do I find mentorship opportunities through networking?
Real mentorship is watching how she moves. Sometimes, it’s asking for 10 minutes, not a lifetime commitment. Women who mentor are often busy—so be specific, respectful, and clear. And don’t forget—you’re allowed to ask about money. About how she negotiated, how she built her safety net, how she balances risk. Want to grow your confidence before reaching out? Know your numbers first. Build your base with Lxme’s safe and secured investment platform for women. Then go make the ask.
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