Networking with Intent: How to Reconnect and Create Value-Driven Professional Relationships

Networking often gets a bad reputation. For many people, it evokes images of awkward introductions, collecting business cards, or only reaching out when you’re looking for your next opportunity. In my experience, the most valuable professional relationships are built long before a role becomes available. I've lost count of the number of conversations that started with nothing more than a coffee catch-up and, months or even years later, resulted in a new opportunity, a recommendation, or a valuable introduction. Taking the time to get to know each other, understanding your ambitions, strengths, and what you're looking for means you're far better equipped to recognise the right opportunities when they arise.

The strongest professional networks are intentional. They're made up of people you've worked with, learned from, or crossed paths with throughout your career. Rather than trying to expand your network as widely as possible, it's often more valuable to reconnect with people who already know your strengths, understand the value you bring, and can advocate for you when the right opportunity comes along.

A good place to start is by thinking about the people you've genuinely enjoyed working with. Former colleagues, managers, leaders, clients, mentors, or peers are often the connections worth revisiting. You don't necessarily need an agenda or a reason to reach out. A simple message to check in, congratulate someone on a recent achievement or a new role, or share an article you think they'd find interesting can be enough to restart a conversation.

The best networking conversations create value for everyone involved. That might mean sharing market insight, introducing two people who could benefit from knowing each other, discussing challenges you're both seeing across the sector, asking thoughtful questions, or simply offering a different perspective. When relationships are built on generosity rather than transactions, they're far more likely to stand the test of time.

For those working as interims, networking is particularly important. Contracts naturally come to an end, and your next opportunity can often come through the relationships you've built and maintained throughout your career. The same is true for senior leaders in permanent roles. Even if you're not actively looking for your next move, staying connected with people helps you stay close to the market, broadens your thinking, and keeps you visible when opportunities arise.

Networking doesn't have to mean attending endless events or spending hours on LinkedIn. Small, consistent actions are often the most effective. Set yourself a goal to reconnect with one or two people each month, make time for the occasional coffee, or simply reach out when someone comes to mind. Those conversations are often the ones that lead to new ideas, trusted advice, future collaborations, and sometimes even your next role.

The best professional relationships aren't built when you need something; they're built over time through curiosity, consistency, and a genuine interest in other people's success. Approach networking with intent, and you'll build a network that creates value throughout your career—and for the people around you as well.

Who is one person you haven't spoken to in a while that you'd genuinely enjoy catching up with? Perhaps today is a good day to reach out.