Networking: How to Turn a Quick Chat into a Real Relationship

What networking advice gets wrong — and what actually works.

The best conversations don’t sound like pitches. They sound like people figuring something out together.

In every innovation space — demo days, panels, conferences, investor meetings — we talk about relationships. But most people don’t have a clear strategy for how conversations become relationships.

Here’s the truth: People are more willing to listen to you when they feel heard by you. And that doesn’t happen by accident.

Six Moments That Matter in Any Great Conversation:

1. Intent: What do you want from this conversation?
   Are you here to learn? To ask for something? To open a door?

2. Enter: How do you start talking to someone?
   You don’t need a perfect opening. You need a human one.

3. Explore: What do you say once it begins?
   Ask about them. Don’t lead with a pitch — lead with curiosity.

4. Listen: How do you show you care what they’re saying?
   People remember when you remember. Names, details, energy.

5. Close: What are you actually asking for?
   Don’t be vague. Ask something real — or offer something real.

6. Follow Up: What happens next — and who makes it happen?
   You do. And the sooner you do it, the better.

Take These With You:

• Text yourself immediately after a good conversation.

  Capture their name, what you talked about, and any next steps.

• Don’t be vague in your follow-up.

  Say exactly what you want to talk about next. It’s not pushy — it’s clear.

• Let them talk.

  In power-imbalanced conversations, aim to listen 60% of the time.

• Ask specific questions.

  “What are you working on?” is okay. “What’s been the most surprising part?” is better.

• Give value, don’t just ask for it.

  Share a relevant article, connect a dot, make an intro — show you’re invested.

People remember conversations, not pitches.

A strong interaction builds the foundation for a strong relationship.

And relationships — not just reach — are what grow ecosystems.