3 simple steps to take control of your career and network like a pro

Picture this.

You’re at a conference or a party, surrounded by strangers.

You find yourself thinking, Why bother talking to these people? They’re not in my company, so how does this help me? 

I used to feel the same way.

Until I realized the people you meet today could be your future boss, collaborator, or investor tomorrow.

The Problem

Networking with people outside your company can feel pointless or awkward—especially when there’s no immediate benefit.

But here’s the mistake we make: managing your career isn’t just about impressing people in your org chart.

If you really want to grow, you need to build connections in every direction—up, down, sideways, and outside your company entirely.

A smart boss once told me something I’ll never forget:

“Jenny, every six months, you should have a conversation with someone outside of Google. Even if you’re the happiest Google exec alive, pressure-test if you still want to be here, check your market value, and see what other companies are doing. There’s a big world out there.”

In 18 years, I never had that conversation my boss suggested. What a miss. I’d have 36 new friends, mentors, and confidants by now!

The Big Small Thing

Here’s how to start managing outside in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Play the Long Game

Networking isn’t about immediate rewards. It’s about planting seeds. Every connection you make today is an investment in your future.

Instead of thinking, “What’s in this for me?” think, “How can this connection benefit both of us three years down the road?”

Step 2: Get Wildly Curious

The best way to manage outside is to show genuine curiosity about others. People love talking about their work, challenges, and successes.

Here’s a simple script to start a conversation:

“Hi [Name], I saw your recent LinkedIn post on [topic], and I found it insightful. I’m currently working on a similar project at [your company], and I’d love to hear more about your experience. Would you be open to a quick chat sometime next week?”

Why it works:

1. You’re starting with a compliment—always a great way to get someone’s attention.

2. You’re making it specific and low-pressure, so it’s easier for them to say yes.

3. It opens the door to a real conversation rather than just “networking” for the sake of it.

(Check out the chapter “Nosy” in my book, Wild Courage, for more tips on how to be wildly curious)

Step 3: Be a Follow-Up Fiend

After your conversation, follow up with this:

“Thanks so much for the chat, [Name]! I’ve already started thinking about how I can apply your insights to [your project]. If you ever want to bounce ideas off of someone or hear more about [related topic], feel free email me anytime!”

Why this works:

1. You show appreciation for their time.

2. You offer to be a resource for them too, making it a two-way street.

3. It keeps the door open for future conversations without being pushy.

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👉 How This Helps You Chase What You Want

Managing outside isn’t just about shaking hands and swapping business cards.

It’s about creating the kind of relationships that lead to big opportunities down the road.

Tomorrow’s job offer, collaboration, or game-changing idea?

It could all start with a conversation today.