3 Types of Networking: Here’s How to choose the RIGHT one for YOU

Networking comes in many forms — but not all of them deliver the same results.

In this article, Global Online Networking Strategist Sigrid de Kaste breaks down the three most common networking styles: social networking, closed business networking, and strategic global online networking.

You’ll learn the strengths and limitations of each, how they impact your visibility and opportunities, and which approach gives you the biggest return on your time.

Whether your goal is to build trusted relationships, open new markets, or grow authority online, this guide helps you understand where to focus your energy for meaningful results.

 

How I Discovered That Networking Could Transform a Business

Imagine spending $14,000 on a promotion and making only five small sales, leaving you with $55,000 worth of stock collecting dust.

That was me.

Back in 2002, when I bought my first business — a diamond jewellery shop on the Gold Coast — I relied strictly on advertising. Catalogue promotions were “the thing to do.”

Until one very expensive campaign fell completely flat.

I was crushed.

But that failure became the best thing that ever happened to me, because it pushed me into something my Marketing studies never taught:

Networking — the real engine behind Know, Like, Trust.

I was invited to a Chamber of Commerce meeting…

and within weeks, every person from that meeting came to my shop.

Then their friends came.

Then their families.

Why?

Because they told me: “We like you.”

They liked how I spoke about my products — real, direct, and genuinely me.

That was the moment I realised:

Networking isn’t about selling.

It’s about being known, liked, and trusted — long before someone needs what you offer.

Since then, I’ve grown every business I’ve owned using networking as a core marketing strategy, including winning international clients for my marketing agency.

And that journey led me to understand networking well and here I’ve segmented networking into the following three categories below.

The 3 Types of Networking — And How Each Works

1. Social Networking

This is the casual coffee meet-up, the friendly Facebook group, the after-work drink.

It’s comfortable, familiar, and often enjoyable — but rarely produces measurable business results unless you show up with intention.

👉 Takeaway Tip #1: Know your intention

Even if it’s casual, have a natural, non-salesy way to mention who you help and how.

Think conversational, not transactional.

 

2. Closed Business Networking

This includes BNI, chambers of commerce, weekly breakfast groups — structured, disciplined, and effective if you commit.

Consistency is the currency here.

You show up regularly, you contribute, and over time your credibility compounds.

👉 Takeaway Tip #2: Play the long game.

Trust builds slowly but pays generously.

Networking is always: *Know → Like → Trust → Refer.

 

3. Global Online Networking

Online networking has exploded, especially Zoom-based events where you’re shuffled into multiple breakout rooms in 30 minutes.

They can feel energising…

…but often lack depth, follow-up, and strategic direction.

 

What Makes Global Business Networking LIVE Online Different

My Global Business Networking sessions are:

• Structured
• LIVE Online
• Visibility-driven
• Supported through guided discussion
• Designed for real connection and outcomes

Members don’t just introduce themselves — they step into meaningful conversations, shine through clarity, and build visibility on a platform built for business.

👉 Takeaway Tip #3: Show up with clarity.

Know your expertise, your ideal audience, and the outcomes you create.

Clarity cuts through global noise instantly.

There’s a reason I say:

Visibility creates Credibility — which leads to Profitability.

 

The Three Essentials for Successful Networking

No matter which style you choose, these three steps make all the difference:

1. Go in with a PLAN.

Know what you want to achieve and who you want to meet.

2. Prepare your introduction.

Align your introduction with your purpose for attending.

3. Follow up — the results live in the follow-up.

• Give before you ask.
• Offer support, insights, or opportunities.
• Relationships grow through generosity.

Final Thoughts: Networking Is Action

Success comes from consistently showing up, being visible, and building meaningful relationships. You may mix and match the types of networking, but always anchor your efforts in clarity, intention, and connection.

If you want networking that gives you global visibility, meaningful connection, and real strategic direction, accept my Guest Pass Gift below and consider joining a future Global Business Networking LIVE Online event.

Your next collaboration — or client — may be just one conversation away.

…and if you’d like to know about how to best introduce yourself when networking, here’s an article I wrote about that, Click Here to Read