What Kind of Networker Are You?

In an international survey of 16,000 LinkedIn users, 80% of professionals acknowledged that networking is crucial for career success, and 40% found it challenging to engage in networking (Cao & Smith, 2021). Sometimes described as a “necessary evil”, networking can feel disingenuous and awkward (Lorelie, 2024). With that in mind, this article aims to make networking less daunting, especially for those just starting.

Firstly, understand your current network type (see Kinni, 2021; Wharton Executive Education, 2023). If you have a large network and connect people or serve as the main information conduit among your contacts, you are likely an expansionist. Brokers possess diverse networks, with non-overlapping contacts; information and opportunities are transmitted and lead to results in collaboration between these networks. Lastly, conveners have a closed network of intertwined contacts. To capitalise on your current network, it is important to understand the advantages of each type: expansionists are great at cultivating weak ties, brokers tend to have fresh ideas, and conveners are seen as trustworthy. Should your network be out of step with your current career stage and needs, consider incorporating another style to reap its benefits! 

How can networking be made less awkward and more genuine?

Firstly, be authentically interested to learn about the other party and their experiences (Westring, 2021). Conversations flow more naturally and feel less transactional, but may require some research before the networking process. Secondly, consider yourself a giver rather than a gainer. This means, instead of focusing on what you can gain from the other party, see how you can contribute. Learning about others' experiences suggests that you acknowledge their expertise and offer them an opportunity to collaborate (Westring, 2021).

Written by: Adalee Loh

01/2026

References

Cao, J. & Smith, E. N. (2021, October 1). Why are some people more reluctant to network than others? KelloggInsight. https://insight.kellogg.northwestern.edu/article/network-size-social-status 

Kinni, T. (2021, March 31). Expansionists, brokers, and conveners. Strategy+Business. https://www.strategy-business.com/article/Expansionists-brokers-and-conveners

Lorelie, C. (2024, March 5). Why does networking have to be so awkward? Medium. https://medium.com/illumination/why-does-networking-have-to-be-so-awkward-8def53400b1f 

Westring, A. F. (2021, September 21). The awkward person’s guide to networking. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2021/09/the-awkward-persons-guide-to-networking 

Wharton Executive Education. (2023, November). The power of intentional networking. https://executiveeducation.wharton.upenn.edu/thought-leadership/wharton-at-work/2023/11/the-power-of-intentional-networking/