This article was written by Caroline O’Neill 

For many of us, the word “networking” can make us feel uneasy. We imagine going to an event, where we know very few people, and being asked that dreaded question, “So, what do you do?”.  

This is where you feel like you should have your “elevator pitch” learned off by heart. And then, if you stumble over it, you feel like leaving the event as quickly as you arrived. Oh, I have been there, and it is because of this that I can hand on heart say networking is a skill that can and should be worked on in order to reap the benefits.

After interviewing a great man, Kinglsey Aikins on the Digg Podcast, and looking back on my own journey, I’ve realised that networking isn’t about collecting business cards or adding random LinkedIn connections. It’s about building relationships, listening to people, and creating a community that helps you thrive in both business and life.

During Covid, our networks shrank. We stuck to family, close friends, and a handful of business contacts. But here’s the problem: real opportunity often comes from the weak ties, those people you know loosely, who open doors you’d never have found yourself.

Kingsley describes it perfectly: your network is not just a safety net when things go wrong, it’s a trampoline that can bounce you into new opportunities when things are going right.

And I’ve seen this play out in my own career. Some of my most exciting collaborations have come from reaching out to someone I didn’t know well or saying yes to an event I nearly talked myself out of. I am sure everyone can relate to this.

The 10-30-60 Rule of Career Progress 

Kingsley also said something in our interview that really stopped me in my tracks: doing a brilliant job at work only counts for 10% of your career progress. I couldn’t believe that statistic, so I questioned him on it further.

He explained that 30% comes from your image, your reputation, how people talk about you when you’re not in the room. 60% comes from exposure, who has seen you in action, who knows what you’re capable of, who’s watching when you deliver.

I think this is a great reminder to people that we can’t hide behind hard work alone. We need to be visible. We need to speak up. We need to build networks that strengthen who we are and what we do.

One of the myths about networking is that you have to be an extrovert, the life and soul of the party. In reality, introverts often make the best networkers because they listen, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine curiosity.

I love this because it means anyone can be great at networking. You don’t need to dominate the room. You just need to show up as yourself and give people the courtesy of listening to them. And let me tell you, I have met so many people who don’t listen. I am sure you have, too. When you listen, you stand out.

Did you know that public speaking is still the number one fear for most people, even above death. (Think about that for a second!) But here’s the truth: in today’s world, public speaking isn’t just standing on a stage. It’s picking up your phone and speaking to your online community.

On LinkedIn, less than 1% of people actually post. That means showing up online consistently should be seen as an opportunity, rather than a huge effort of trying to push through a crowded market.

I like to remind myself and my clients of Kingsley’s words: now is the time to shine online.

Here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: you don’t need to take giant leaps to move forward. Kingsley calls it the theory of marginal gains. Getting 1% better at lots of small things can transform your results.

In my own journey, I’ve seen this over and over again. Whether it was launching the Digg Podcast, showing up on social media through Digg Mama, or building new collaborations on Digg For Success, it was never one huge step. It was the small, consistent actions that created big change.

Small Networking Steps You Can Start Today 

So, if networking terrifies you, start small: 

• Reconnect with someone this week that you haven’t heard from in a while.
• Comment thoughtfully on a LinkedIn post. Not just an emoji. Read what they have posted and make your comment genuine.
• Share one story online, in written form or video. Even if it makes you feel nervous.

These are the small steps you can build on.

And here’s the truth I’ve learned: you don’t wait until you’re stuck to start building your network. You start now. With small, genuine steps. A smile. A message. A chat over coffee. Because you never know, the next person you meet could be the one conversation that changes everything for you.

You can listen to my full conversation with Kingsley Aikins here.

Join Me at the Festival of Business 

That’s exactly why I’m so passionate about hosting the Festival of Business with NI Chamber. It’s not just an event with lots of speakers; it’s an event full of opportunity.

If you’re ready to take even one small step outside your comfort zone, the Festival of Business is the place to do it. Trust me, you’ll leave with more than notes and ideas: you’ll leave with new connections, and who knows where it could lead. Can’t wait to see you there.

Find out more here and book your free ticket today.

 Digg For Success / Digg Mama / Digg Podcast