Why Networking Matters More Than Ever For Women

• Visibility Creates Opportunity

Women are still underrepresented in leadership, funding and decision-making spaces across New Zealand. Networking can be a key-way to start to shift this. When people know who you are, what you do and what you stand for, doors open – often in ways you didn’t anticipate.

• Community Strengthens Confidence

There’s something powerful about being surrounded by women who get it – the juggle, the ambition, the self-doubt and the fire. A strong network becomes your sounding board, your safety net and your strategy team. 

• Collaboration Beats Competition

Women thrive in ecosystems, not hierarchies. Networking helps you find collaborators, mentors, clients and champions. It’s not about “What can I get?” but “What can we build together?” It’s the notion that a rising tide lifts all ships – and it works. 

• Your Network Creates Resilience

Both growth and strength develop best in community. The same is true in business. When challenges hit – as they do – your network becomes a key place from where to draw strength, ideas and perspective. 

How To Network With Intention (and Without Wasting Time!)

1. Set an intention before you arrive. Don’t just show up – show up with purpose.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want to learn?
• Who do I want to meet?
• How do I want to feel when I leave?

A clear intention shifts you from passive attendee to active participant.

2. Craft Your “Connection Intro”

Skip the stiff and boring elevator pitch. Try a warm, human intro that sounds like you. Having a sentence ready such as “Hi, I’m Sarah – I help small businesses grow through digital storytelling” gets you right to the point, it’s genuine and creates easy space to invite conversation.

3. Ask Better Questions

You’ve heard it before – people will forget what you say, but they won’t forget how you made them feel. Ask curious questions that go deeper than job titles. 

• What’s lighting you up in your work right now?
• What’s a challenge you’re navigating at the moment?
• What’s something you are excited about this year?

These types of questions spark real connection, rather than small talk. Equally, have a think about what you’d say in answer to these questions, so you are prepared to offer value in the conversation. 

4. Share Your Wins – Without Apology

Women can often downplay their achievements. Networking is the place to own them. Not with ego – with clarity. Be open to receiving and championing others wins also – this builds actual connection.

5. Follow Up Like It Matters – Because It Does!

Send a message the next day to those connections you made that you’d like to strengthen. Relationships develop in the follow up and if you can include something that adds value for the person (and not wanting anything in return – this is not the time for an ask) even better. For example:

“ Was great to meet you and chat about your new project – I’ve attached that podcast I was telling you about, I think you’d like it.” 

After you have a response, you can go on to set up coffee meetings etc. It’s important to be intentional with your messaging. 

Networking doesn’t mean talking to everyone. It means connecting thoughtfully with a few. 

You can also ask the host to arrange an introduction with someone specific if you need help.