How to network like a pro

Our top 8 chats for career growth

Graphic image of five people networking

Networking isn’t just a catchphrase — it’s a superpower. But for many of us, understanding how to network, and then initiating that first conversation, can feel daunting. Between the small talk, following up, and making sure each interaction feels genuine, it’s no wonder so many professionals shy away from it.

But here’s the good news: Networking doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it can be the gateway to genuine connections, new job opportunities, and even mentorships that shape the future of your career.

At PowerToFly, we know how crucial networking is for career advancement. And paired with a few other growth strategies, it becomes the bread and butter of your long-term success plan. That’s why we regularly feature Chat & Learns led by industry experts and career coaches who share tried-and-true strategies to make networking feel natural and, dare we say, enjoyable.

In this roundup, we’re highlighting our top eight Chat & Learns on how to network and expand your career toolkit. From mastering the art of making connections to setting actionable career goals, these sessions will have you leveling up your career game in ways that make your resume blush.

Ready to turn small talk into big career moves? Let’s dive in.

Top chats on how to network & boost your career

Networking Strategies: Building Meaningful Connections

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What if we told you that learning how to network could land you a job?

According to LinkedIn, an impressive 85% of jobs are filled through some form of networking — yet, only one in four people actively network. This chat will get on the right side of that statistic.

Tune in to learn how to cultivate relationships that are mutually beneficial and long-lasting with three talent acquisition experts. In this chat, you’ll explore the importance of authenticity in professional connections, learning strategies like active listening, meaningful follow-ups, and identifying common ground to ensure each new contact is more than just a LinkedIn connection.

Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, don’t miss this opportunity to make networking feel comfortable — and avoid those awkward weather conversations. (We know you know.)

Stop Networking, Start Connecting

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Led by an expert on gender equity and women’s participation in the paid labor market, this chat takes a refreshing approach to the concept of networking. The focus here is on quality, authentic engagement over quantity, helping you ditch the “sales-y” networking style for an approach that feels true to who you are.

Tune in to learn techniques for finding common ground quickly, fostering deeper conversations, and maintaining genuine connections over time.

5 Steps to Kick-Start Your Career Growth

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If you’ve ever thought, “I know I want more in my career, but where do I start?” this session is your answer.

With the new year approaching, it’s the perfect time to set a solid action plan for your career growth. Tune in to hear from a certified resume writer and job search strategist who has helped hundreds of professionals create impactful resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and career strategies that go beyond job applications.

She’ll walk you through five essential habits that help drive career growth, along with her “3 A’s” approach to building an actionable, multi-strategy plan that keeps you moving forward.

We love a good checklist, and this chat delivers!

Transformative Networks: Three Concrete Steps to Building a Powerful Network

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Creating a network that truly supports you goes beyond collecting contacts; it’s about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up. In this chat, a career and women’s empowerment speaker and writer shares three powerful steps to build a transformative network that fuels your growth.

First, you’ll learn how to identify and neutralize “anti-mentors” — those who, intentionally or not, hold you back. Then, you’ll dive into the crucial skill of knowing your worth, so you can connect with confidence and authenticity. And to wrap up, you’ll get tips on how to “brag like a champ,” because networking sometimes means showcasing your strengths without hesitation.

Career Management Tips for Professional Growth

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It’s the perfect time to hit “pause” and take stock of your career goals. Whether you’re aiming to level up or make a pivot, this chat with a career management strategist has got you covered.

Our expert speaker brings her A-game with practical tips on setting and evaluating goals, crafting a growth strategy that actually fits your life, and mastering the art of self-advocacy (because your work deserves to be noticed!). This session is all about helping you take ownership of your career path and navigate the ups, downs, and twists with ambition and confidence.

If you’re ready to set some goals that go beyond the New Year’s list and start making moves that matter, add this chat to your queue.

Networking 101: How to Get the Most Out of a Networking Event

Networking 101: How To Get The Most Out Of A Networking Eventpowertofly.com

Let's face it, networking is stressful, and at times it can be down right awkward. However, some experts say that upwards of 85% of jobs are landed via...

If you’ve ever felt awkward or unsure at networking events, this chat is your new best friend.

The CoFounders of crabwalk, a professional growth resource, guide you through the basics of effective networking in often-intimidating spaces, covering essentials like identifying the right connections to chat with, planning conversation starters, and making a memorable first impression.

In just 60 minutes, you’ll dive deep into understanding which of your connections can help you land your dream role, and better yet, how to gain the confidence to approach them.

Your Career, Your Call: Tips & Tricks to Achieve Career Growth

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Ever feel like your career path looks less like a straight line and more like a series of zigs and zags? Meet Lola, whose job titles have included biochemist, project manager, COO, writer, and even a diversity and inclusion analyst. In this chat, Lola shares her refreshing take on career growth — it’s not just about climbing a ladder; sometimes, it’s about weaving a tapestry.

During an hour-long Q&A, Lola walks you through strategies for exploring your “next step” without feeling boxed in. This includes tips on building a portfolio of experiences, boosting your confidence to take bold moves, and staying true to yourself through each transition.

Whether you’re thinking of a career shift or simply wanting to broaden your skills, Lola’s insights will help you embrace a career path that’s as unique as you are.

Leveraging Your Network to Land Your Next Job

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This chat should be the bread and butter of every networking course.

Why? An experienced recruiting manager reveals concrete, actionable strategies to help you expand, nurture, and ultimately leverage your network to support your career moves. You’ll be guided through crafting a networking strategy that’s effective, genuine, and perfectly suited to the digital age, as well as insider tips on building connections that don’t just sit idle on your contact list — they work for you.

Bonus: You’ll gain access to a step-by-step guide on using ChatGPT in your job search.

Ready to keep the momentum going? Don’t miss out on our upcoming Chat & Learns, where you can dive deeper into networking, career growth, and so much more! Explore upcoming Chat & Learns here.
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