Networking. That awkward, cringey thing we all know we should do but secretly avoid.
If the word NETWORKING makes you want to run for the hills, you’re not alone.
But here’s the thing: This skill will serve you in every part of life.
Not just in business, but in:
- Landing new opportunities
- Climbing the corporate ladder
- Growing a business
- Building new friendships and relationships
And yet, in 2025, networking doesn’t look like it used to—especially if:
- You work remotely.
- You’re in your 40s or beyond.
- You’re trying to build something for yourself.
COVID changed everything.
The old networking playbook? Completely outdated.
Why modern networking feels impossible
👩💻 If You Work Remotely… The Isolation is Real
Remote work promised freedom.
No commute! Pajamas all day! More time with family!
What no one told us?
It also killed casual connections.
- No coffee machine chats
- No spontaneous “let’s grab lunch” moments
- No bumping into people who spark ideas
Without in-person interactions, networking became forced and awkward.
Here’s why it’s harder:
- Fewer Organic Conversations
No random office banter. No “Hey, I love what you said in that meeting.” It’s harder to build relationships naturally.
Fix: Schedule virtual coffee chats, join digital communities, and engage on social platforms. Be intentional.
2. Out of Sight, Out of Mind
No one is casually seeing your work. That means fewer opportunities come your way.
Fix: Make your work visible. Speak up in meetings, contribute to discussions, and update your LinkedIn.
3. Weak Professional Circles
When you worked in an office, networking happened by default. Remote work? Not so much.
Fix: Expand outside your job. Join LinkedIn groups, Slack channels, industry masterminds, or virtual events.
4. It’s Harder to Build Trust
Zoom calls don’t replace real human connection.
Fix: Be intentional about relationship-building—connect outside of work, follow up, and don’t just network when you need something.
👩🦳 If You’re in Midlife… It’s Even Harder
For those of us who started working pre-LinkedIn, networking used to mean:
✔️ Business lunches
✔️ Industry conferences
✔️ In-person meetings
Then COVID hit.
And suddenly, everything moved online.
Now? Networking is a digital-first game.
And younger professionals own those spaces.
- You don’t want to “slide into DMs” like a 25-year-old growth hacker.
- You feel out of place in virtual meetups filled with Gen Z energy.
- You worry you’ve lost valuable connections over the past few years.
- Some of your old contacts? Retired AF.
Why does it feel so hard – and how do you fix it?
- Your Network is Stagnant
By 40+, most of your network consists of former colleagues and past connections.
Fix: Actively expand your network—reconnect with old colleagues, but also meet new people in digital-first spaces.
2. You’re Not in “Networking Mode”
In your 20s, networking was about getting ahead.
In your 40s, you’re busy with kids, aging parents, and a career.
Fix: Make networking a habit. Join a weekly mastermind, attend events, or schedule 1:1s.
3. The Playing Field Has Changed
The people you relied on in your 30s? Might not be useful in your new phase of life.
Fix: Build new circles. Find online groups focused on career pivots, entrepreneurship, or personal growth.
4. You Feel Like an Outsider
Networking events are filled with 20-something tech bros hyping up AI, crypto, and the next unicorn startup.
Fix: Own your experience. You bring strategy, wisdom, and expertise younger professionals don’t have. Stop playing small.
The Big Takeaway: Networking Didn’t Die—It Just Moved.
If you work remotely:
- Make your work visible.
- Schedule virtual coffee chats.
- Engage in digital spaces like Slack, LinkedIn, and online communities.
If you’re in midlife:
- Be proactive in expanding your network.
- Find like-minded groups focused on your next phase.
- Embrace the digital-first world—even if it feels uncomfortable.
Because here’s the truth:
- Your network is your safety net.
- It’s time to rebuild it.
- Build real, long-term relationships—even if that means stepping out of your comfort zone.
What’s the hardest part of networking for you?
Hit reply and tell me – I’d love to hear.
See you next Wednesday!
