7 Takeaways from POV Episode #7: How to Network When You Hate Networking
On July 23, we welcomed a live audience to the hub for the seventh episode of POV with SEG, How to Network When You Hate Networking. Hosted by SEG Community Engagement Manager Liz Connell, the conversation featured Akanksha Aga, founder of Breaking Bread; Travis Escobar, an employee of United Way Rhode Island and founder of two local businesses including Millennial RI; and Deb Honor, Executive Director of the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island and founder of H2H Spark.
Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to grow your network, the discussion offered practical advice for building genuine professional relationships.
1. Networking Is More Than an Event
Your professional network isn’t built in a single conversation—it’s shaped by your work, reputation, and relationships over time.
As Aga explained, networking “is not the entire recipe, it is an important ingredient. Your expertise, your credibility, and your ability to evolve can make you successful.”
Escobar echoed that idea: “You are always networking, whether at your workplace or at an event. Your work is your brand.”
2. Follow Up While You’re Still Fresh
A great conversation only goes so far if you never reconnect. Taking a few minutes to send a thoughtful follow-up can make all the difference.
Aga emphasized the importance of acting quickly: “I love the immediate follow-up, they could’ve had seven more events and completely forgotten.”
3. Relationships Need to Be Maintained
Networking isn’t about collecting business cards, it’s about staying connected.
“There’s a lot of focus on the first time you meet someone,” Escobar shared. “Continuous networking is the best way to steward a relationship.”
Honor also encouraged building relationships outside traditional networking events: “I love going out for coffee – you never know where that coffee is going to lead.”
Stepping outside your comfort zone can be difficult, and it’s okay to pace yourself.
4. Small Steps Still Count
Aga reminded listeners: “It’s okay to not go to events – it’s okay to say no. It’s okay to preserve your energy and mental health, but remember that it is a practice. Celebrate your wins while knowing that it’s okay to say no.”
5. Listen More Than You Talk
The strongest connections start with genuine curiosity.
“Really listen to what the other person is saying so you can identify something you have in common for your follow-up,” Honor advised.
Connell noted an easy strategy for fostering a strong connection is to write that common ground down. “I’ve seen a lot of people write something memorable on the back of their business cards ex: ‘likes soccer,” she said – giving them something personal to come back to.
6. Little Rhody Makes Networking Less Scary
One of the biggest themes of the discussion was how connected Rhode Island’s professional community can be. The state’s collaborative spirit makes it easier to build meaningful relationships that last.
Escobar shared, “It’s really because of the love and connectivity that I’ve found that’s made me want to stay in Rhode Island forever.”
7. Lead with Intention and Kindness
Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional. Sometimes the best way to start a conversation is to remember that everyone is feeling a little nervous.
Honor shared her approach: “If you go to a networking event and see someone by themselves, they are probably feeling as scared and alone as you are – go up and strike up a conversation.”
Missed the live recording? Be sure to watch the full episode of POV with SEG to hear even more insights from our panelists.