For many people entering the IT world, networking feels stressful or artificial. But at its core, it’s simply the art of building relationships.

Networking means creating and maintaining connections with people so you can support each other, exchange knowledge, share experiences, and spark new ideas. It’s not about collecting business cards – it’s about forming real relationships built on trust, honesty, and mutual benefit.

Why does networking matter?

The professional world rarely works in isolation. Opportunities appear where people meet. Very often, it’s your relationships that determine which doors open for you.

Networking can be a powerful tool for anyone who wants to enter the IT industry or grow within it. Here’s what it can give you:

  • A faster entry into the industry – access to unlisted job opportunities, referrals, and a realistic picture of different roles.
  • Support during a career change – conversations with people who’ve already made the switch, practical advice, and avoiding common mistakes.
  • Skill development and confidence – feedback on your CV, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile, plus better preparation for interviews.
  • Mentoring and inspiration – access to mentors and exposure to career paths you may not have considered.
  • A support network – the feeling that you’re not alone, connection with people at a similar stage, and a safe space to ask questions.

What does “good networking” actually mean?

Good networking isn’t about quick wins. It’s about long‑term collaboration and professional growth.

Its key qualities include:

  • Authenticity – you meet people because you’re genuinely interested, not because you want something from them.
  • Reciprocity – the relationship works both ways. Your presence and support bring real value.
  • Consistency and follow‑up – you stay in touch, check in, and show up for others.
  • Openness to diversity – you connect with people from different fields and backgrounds because you never know where the next opportunity will come from.

And one more thing: good networking doesn’t mean being available to everyone at the expense of yourself. Saying “no” is perfectly fine. Not every connection needs to be nurtured – invest your time and energy where the value is truly mutual.

Where can you meet valuable people?

Networking doesn’t only happen at big conferences or formal events. You can build relationships in many spaces – online and offline, in professional settings and everyday situations.

It’s not about being everywhere. It’s about choosing a few places and showing up regularly. That’s where conversations, trust, and real connections naturally grow.

Here are some of the easiest spaces to start:

Events and conferences:

  • Industry conferences – meet experts and people from your field
  • Fairs and exhibitions – connect with companies, clients, and partners
  • Meetups and workshops – smaller groups make deeper conversations easier

Online spaces:

  • LinkedIn – comment posts, share content, send personalized messages
  • Online conferences and webinars – chat rooms, discussion groups, follow‑up emails

Everyday life and passions:

  • Colleagues at work – natural connections in your daily environment
  • Professional courses and trainings – meet people with similar goals
  • Volunteering and social initiatives – networking with purpose
  • Coworking and creative spaces – relaxed environments that spark conversation
  • Hobby clubs and interest groups – shared passions often lead to meaningful relationships.

How to start networking?

If you’re new to it, online networking can feel easier – especially for introverts. Later, you can gradually move those online connections into real‑life conversations.

Comment one LinkedIn post a week. Send one short, personalized message to someone in the industry. Join one topic‑focused online group. Don’t be afraid to reach out first, even if you feel you’re “not ready yet.” Small steps can lead to big outcomes. A simple comment I once left under a LinkedIn post turned into an online connection with the author, which later became an offline friendship. Today, we co‑run her LinkedIn community and support each other’s growth.

For offline events, it helps to check the agenda beforehand, read about the speakers, or learn a bit about the topics. It makes starting a conversation much easier.

Summary

Networking doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. At its heart, it’s about caring for relationships and showing genuine interest in people.

If you’re unsure where to begin and want to take your first step in a safe environment, join the Girls Code Fun community – a place where connections form naturally and without pressure. In an industry where female role models are still scarce, this kind of support network helps quiet the impostor syndrome and creates space to learn, ask questions, and build confidence.

This article was prepared by Anna Niejełow, mentor at the Girls Code Fun Foundation.

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Sources:
1. Keith Ferrazzi. Never Eat Alone.
2. Workplace Learning Report. 2023.