Networking - English

Building Professional Relationships

When networking, use phrases to connect with others and establish a positive professional rapport. You may start by introducing yourself and your role, for example, “Hi, I’m Alex. I work for Company Name.” You might ask, “Can I introduce you to a colleague?” or “Would you like to connect on LinkedIn?” If you want advice or insights, you could say, “Could I pick your brain about your industry?” After losing touch, you can say, “It’s great to reunite!” or “Let’s touch base soon.”

• “Nice to meet you. I wanted to connect because we’re in the same industry.”
• “Could I pick your brain about a project I’m working on?”
• “I’d like to introduce you to a colleague who specializes in marketing.”
• “Let’s touch base next week.”

Describing Networking Events

Professional networking takes place at specific events such as a conference, seminar, expo, workshop, or casual get-together. These events are often specific to your industry or profession. You might say, “I’ll be attending the trade show this year,” or, “This conference is a great place to meet others in our field.” Always have a business card ready.

• “I met her at an industry conference.”
• “We’re organizing a networking get-together for professionals.”
• “Did you get a chance to join the workshop?”
• “Are you going to the trade show next month?”

Common Networking Strategies

To network effectively, use icebreakers to start a conversation, such as, “What brought you to this event?” or “How did you get into your profession?” You might approach someone by making eye contact and introducing yourself. After a chat, it’s useful to engage further by asking thoughtful questions. After meeting, you can follow up with an email or message to keep the connection alive. Attend multiple events to grow your network, and mingle with different groups to meet as many people as possible.

• “Can I join your group?”
• “What do you hope to get out of this seminar?”
• “I’d love to follow up after the event.”

Exchanging Contact Information

Always be ready to exchange details. You can take out your business card and offer it, or ask, “May I have your contact information?” Use phrases like, “Here’s my business card,” or “Let me give you my email and phone number.” If you need their information, ask politely: “Could you share your phone number?” or “May I take your business card?”

• “Here’s my card—let’s keep in touch.”
• “Can I give you my email address?”
• “What’s the best way to contact you?”

Describing Your Career and Professional Background

When introducing yourself, briefly summarize your career. You can mention your current position (“I’m a project manager at TechCorp”) and industry (“I work in the healthcare industry”). You may talk about your experience, saying, “I have experience in digital marketing,” or “I’ve worked in this profession for ten years.” For a broader introduction: “My professional background is in finance.”

• “I work for an international consulting firm.”
• “My experience includes project management and business development.”
• “I’m new to the profession but eager to learn.”

Discussing Opportunities and Collaborations

When you find a possible match for partnership or a shared goal, use phrases related to collaboration. Invite involvement: “I’d like to discuss a possible collaboration.” You might share ideas or resources: “Let’s share our contact lists.” After meeting, say, “I’ll follow up soon to see how we can work together.” To maintain momentum, suggest, “Let’s keep in touch,” or offer help: “How can I support your project?”

• “I see an opportunity for us to collaborate.”
• “Would you be open to supporting our initiative?”
• “Let’s keep in touch about future projects.”