Networking is a crucial strategy for business growth, and in my experience over the last 10 years, it has contributed to 80% of our overall growth. Even though I’m naturally quiet and prefer to keep to myself, I decided to push myself to meet and connect with people.

Over time, I learned that networking isn’t as frightening as it first seemed and can be very helpful. With the right networking strategies by your side, it can be constructive and beneficial for both personal success and business growth.

Here are seven important rules for networking that have helped me grow, especially as someone who is more quiet and introverted. These tips can help you make real connections with others and find success over time.

1. Quality Over Quantity in Networking

Some people believe that networking is about meeting as many people as possible, but that’s not right. The quality of your connections is what counts. I’ve discovered that a few strong friendships are more valuable than knowing many people.

Instead of spending so much time meeting a large number of people just to show off you know them. Try to focus on building real friendships with a smaller but meaningful circle, who share your interests or work in the same field. Only meaningful relationships can help you grow and work together in the future.

Having meaningful relationships with 10 people is more beneficial than barely knowing 100. When you invest in deeper connections, you create trust and respect, which leads to more supportive and valuable relationships.

2. Be a Giver, Not Just a Taker

Networking isn’t about what you can get from others, but what you can give them. People remember and respect those who help and add value to their lives. Whether it’s introducing them to others, sharing helpful advice, or just listening, focus on being someone who helps and supports others.

If you’re known for helping others, people will naturally want to reach out to you. The kindness you show often finds its way back to you, sometimes unexpectedly. Remember, real connections develop when you assist others selflessly, and that is truly appreciated.

3. The Power of the Introvert

People often think that networking is only for extroverts who love to engage in conversation. As an introvert, I’ve realized we can bring something unique to the process. Networking doesn’t have to involve large gatherings or endless chatting.

Introverts are good at making strong connections with one person at a time. These deep conversations are often better than just talking to many people quickly. Instead of trying to talk to everyone at once, focus on having meaningful chats with a few people. This helps you make a lasting impression.

Introverts are great listeners, and listening is often more important than talking when networking. If you show real interest in others, ask good questions, and pay attention to what they say, it helps build trust and strong connections.

4. Networking in Unexpected Places

You don’t have to attend big events or formal meetings to network. Some of my most valuable connections have come from unexpected places, like meeting someone at a coffee shop or during a casual, fun get-together.

Casual conversations can lead to unexpected opportunities you didn’t see coming. Don’t overlook these simple connections! Be open-minded, because the next person you meet could offer advice or help that benefits your business in ways you didn’t expect.

5. Follow Up Strategies For Networking

Making a good connection is just the start, the real effort comes after that. Many people forget to stay in touch after meeting someone. Sending a simple thank-you note, an email, or connecting on social media can help keep the friendship strong.

Following up shows that you care about the connection and want to spend time on it. But don’t just check in once, keep nurturing the friendship by reaching out, sharing helpful information, or offering to help when you can. Doing this regularly will make your relationship even stronger over time.

6. Active Listening in Networking

One of the most impactful parts of networking is listening. While people often want to talk about themselves, real bonds are formed when you genuinely listen and try to understand the other person’s needs, struggles, and interests.

Active listening helps build trust and makes the other person feel important. In a busy world where many people don’t take the time to listen, giving your full attention can make you stand out. When you listen carefully, you learn important things and create a strong base for a good friendship.

7. Long-term Networking Success

Many people think networking is just a one-time thing or a quick deal. But really, networking is about building relationships over a long time. It’s about making friends that grow and help each other succeed.

Don’t expect quick results. Building a network takes time, regular effort, and patience. Friendships you make today can turn into important partnerships or help later on. If you view networking as a long-term effort, you’ll eventually see significant rewards from it.

Networking can greatly support your business growth, but many underestimate its true impact. By following these seven networking tips for business growth—such as focusing on quality over quantity, offering help before seeking it, honing your listening skills, forming connections in unexpected places, staying connected, and treating networking as a long-term process—you can create meaningful relationships that benefit both you and your business.

What do you think about networking? How do you make good friendships that help you grow over time?