Last Updated on February 20, 2025 by Chukwuemeka Maduka
Introduction
Some of the best jobs in tech? They never get posted online.
Instead, they land in the inboxes of people who know the right people. A casual chat at a conference, a quick reply to a LinkedIn post, or even a random DM can lead to career-changing opportunities.
And yet, many professionals treat networking like a dreaded chore. They think it means forcing awkward conversations, handing out business cards like candy, or faking enthusiasm at events they’d rather skip. It doesn’t have to be that way.
If you want to build real connections that open doors, you need a different approach—one that actually works for you, not against you.
This blog post on LearnWithPride will show you:
- How to network in tech without feeling like a salesperson
- What to say when reaching out to someone (so you don’t sound generic)
- The best way to build a strong tech network, even if you’re introverted
- Where to find tech networking events in London and beyond
Skip the awkward small talk and shallow LinkedIn connections. Let’s focus on what really works.
Why Networking in the Tech Industry is Non-Negotiable
Tech moves fast. Today’s startup engineer is tomorrow’s CTO.
The intern struggling with bug fixes today could be running a billion-dollar AI company in five years. Your network is your cheat code to staying relevant.
Many people assume networking is just about job hunting, but that’s a rookie mistake. The real benefits go way beyond landing a gig:
1. Hidden Opportunities
The best roles, collaborations, and investments aren’t sitting on job boards. They’re discussed in Slack groups, Twitter DMs, and invite-only circles.
Being part of the right conversations gives you access before the rest of the world catches up.
2. Learning from Insiders
Want to break into a hot new field like Web3, AI, or cybersecurity?
The fastest way to get up to speed isn’t another YouTube tutorial but talking to people already killing it in that space. They’ll tell you what’s worth learning, what’s outdated, and what skills actually pay.
3. Building Your Reputation (Without Trying Too Hard)
When people know what you do and see you as someone worth knowing, opportunities find you.
Maybe a recruiter remembers your name when they need a specialist. Maybe a founder wants you on their team because of your insightful LinkedIn posts. Networking isn’t just about who you know—it’s about who knows you.
Bottom line: Tech is a relationship-driven industry. If you’re not networking, you’re making things ten times harder for yourself.
Breaking the “I’m Not a Networking Person” Mindset
A lot of people—especially introverts—think networking is just for the extroverts, the social butterflies, the “people persons.” Wrong.
Networking isn’t about forcing awkward conversations, pretending to be outgoing, or collecting business cards like Pokémon. It’s about genuine connections—and that’s something anyone can build.
1. Stop Thinking of Networking as “Selling Yourself”
Most people avoid networking because they think it means shameless self-promotion. But nobody likes the guy who brags about his skills at every opportunity.
Instead of worrying about how to “pitch” yourself, focus on something way easier: being curious.
Ask questions. Listen. Find common ground. Let the conversation flow naturally.
2. Play to Your Strengths
Introverted? Great. You probably listen more than you talk—which makes you a better networker than most extroverts who dominate conversations.
Not great at small talk? Skip it. Go into meaningful discussions about topics that actually interest you. Tech people love nerding out. Use that to your advantage.
3. Build Your Network in Ways That Feel Comfortable
Not all networking happens at loud conferences or high-energy meetups. You can build powerful connections without stepping outside your comfort zone:
✅ Twitter/X: Reply to industry discussions, share your insights, and connect with like-minded people.
✅ LinkedIn DMs: A well-crafted message to someone you admire can lead to game-changing conversations.
✅ Tech communities (Discord, Slack, Reddit): Many of the best networking opportunities happen in niche online spaces.
4. Focus on Giving, Not Taking
Want to know the fastest way to build a valuable network? Be helpful and Be valuable.
- Share job openings.
- Recommend great resources.
- Introduce people who should know each other.
- Offer insights when someone is stuck.
- and so on.
It’s not expensive to do and when you become the person who helps others, opportunities naturally come your way.
How to Network at Tech Events
Tech events are goldmines for networking, but walking into a room full of strangers can feel awkward.
You don’t want to be that person standing in the corner, pretending to check emails while everyone else is making connections.
Lol!
So, how do you make the most of these events without forcing interactions that feel unnatural?
1. Pick the Right Events
Not all tech events are worth your time.
Choose conferences, hackathons, meetups, and workshops that actually align with your interests and expertise. This way, you’ll already have common ground with attendees, making conversations easier.
Looking for tech networking events in London? Some of the best include:
- London Tech Week – One of the biggest annual gatherings in the industry.
- Startup Grind London – Great for meeting founders and investors.
- Google Developer Groups (GDG) London – Ideal for devs looking to connect.
- Women in Tech London – A solid community for female tech professionals.
2. Have a Game Plan
Don’t just show up and hope for the best. Before the event:
✅ Research attendees – Check LinkedIn and event pages to see who’s coming.
✅ Set a goal – Do you want to meet potential employers? Find a mentor? Connect with peers?
✅ Prepare talking points – Read up on the latest industry news so you can start relevant conversations.
3. Start Conversations Naturally
The biggest mistake people make? Overthinking their approach. You don’t need a clever opening line—just be normal.
Try these easy icebreakers:
- “Hey, I saw your name on the attendee list. What brings you to this event?”
- “That talk on AI ethics was interesting. What did you think?”
- “I noticed you work at [Company Name]. I’ve always been curious about their engineering culture.”
The goal is a natural exchange, not a robotic sales pitch.
4. Don’t Cling to One Person
It’s tempting to find one friendly face and stick with them the whole time. Don’t. Move around, meet different people, and make multiple connections.
If you want to exit a conversation politely, say:
🔹 “It was great chatting with you! I’m going to grab a drink before the next session starts.”
🔹 “I’ll let you get back to networking, but let’s connect on LinkedIn!”
5. Follow Up After the Event
Meeting people is just the first step—staying in touch is where the real networking happens.
Send a quick LinkedIn message:
“Hey [Name], it was great meeting you at [Event]! I really enjoyed our chat about [Topic]. Let’s stay in touch!”
Share an article or resource:
If they mentioned an interest in cloud computing, send them a recent AWS update. Small gestures keep you on their radar.
Tech events aren’t just about showing up but about showing up prepared. Go in with a plan, start natural conversations, and follow up after.
How to Succeed in the Tech Industry Through Networking
Climbing the ladder in tech isn’t just about mastering skills or earning certifications. It’s about getting in front of the right people—those who can vouch for you, introduce you to opportunities, and open doors you didn’t even know existed. But networking isn’t about collecting contacts like trading cards; it’s about building meaningful relationships that actually benefit your career.
Connect with People Who Matter
Not every connection is worth pursuing. Some will be valuable allies, while others might not align with your goals. The key is to focus on:
- Peers who share insights, job leads, and industry trends.
- Mentors who’ve walked the path before you and can provide guidance.
- Recruiters & Hiring Managers who can connect you with job opportunities.
- Industry Influencers who shape conversations in tech and can boost your visibility.
These people are everywhere—on LinkedIn, Twitter, Slack groups, and industry events. But a connection isn’t just about adding someone on LinkedIn. It’s about engaging with their work, commenting on their content, and offering value in conversations.
Don’t Just Show Up—Try To Engage
Networking is more than handing out business cards at a conference. If you want to be memorable, you need to contribute. Instead of sending generic connection requests, interact with people’s content, share your thoughts on industry trends, and be someone worth knowing.
Online engagement plays a huge role here. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and even GitHub provide spaces where tech professionals discuss ideas, share projects, and post job openings. By participating in these discussions, you make yourself visible in the right circles.
Give Before You Take
A common mistake in networking is only reaching out when you need something—a job referral, advice, or an introduction. But the best way to build strong relationships is to offer value first. If you see a job opening that fits someone in your network, send it their way. If you come across an article or resource that could help a connection, share it with them. Small actions like these show that you’re not just looking for personal gain—you’re someone who genuinely supports others.
And when the time comes that you do need help, you won’t feel awkward asking because you’ve already built goodwill. Relationships in tech are a two-way street.
Follow Up Without Being Annoying
Let’s say you met someone at a conference, engaged with an expert online, or had a great chat with a recruiter. What happens next? Connections fade if you don’t maintain them. The trick is to stay in touch without being a nuisance.
Every few months, send a brief check-in message. It could be a simple LinkedIn comment, a DM about an industry trend, or even a quick email saying, “Hey [Name], I saw this article and thought of our last conversation. Hope you’re doing well!” These small efforts keep the relationship alive without making you seem needy.
Success in the tech industry isn’t just about talent—it’s about relationships. The more you nurture your network, the more opportunities will come your way.
Tech Networking Events in London
London is one of the biggest tech hubs in the world, with countless networking events happening every month. Whether you’re a software developer, digital marketer, cybersecurity expert, or startup founder, there’s an event for you. These gatherings aren’t just about exchanging business cards—they’re where partnerships are formed, job opportunities arise, and ideas turn into reality.
Why London is a Hotspot for Tech Networking
The city is home to some of the biggest tech companies, innovative startups, and venture capital firms looking for the next big idea. With global conferences, meetups, and workshops happening regularly, London provides an endless stream of opportunities to connect with industry leaders and like-minded professionals.
Top Tech Networking Events in London
If you’re serious about networking, here are some of the best tech events to attend:
- London Tech Week – One of the largest tech gatherings in Europe, bringing together industry leaders, startups, and investors for a week of networking, panel discussions, and exhibitions.
- Tech Meetups (e.g., London JavaScript, Python London, Women in Tech London) – These smaller, more niche events allow professionals to connect within their specific field.
- AI & Big Data Expo – Perfect for those in artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning.
- Startup Grind London – A great place to meet founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts looking to build and scale businesses.
- Founders Forum – A high-profile networking event where tech entrepreneurs and investors meet to discuss the future of the industry.
- SaaStock London – Tailored for SaaS professionals, this event focuses on scaling, funding, and building successful software companies.
- Silicon Roundabout Meetups – Ideal for anyone working in or around East London’s thriving tech scene.
How to Make the Most of These Events
Attending an event isn’t enough—you need to be intentional about networking. Here’s how to maximize your time:
- Do Your Research: Know who’s attending and set up meetings in advance.
- Prepare an Elevator Pitch: Be ready to introduce yourself and explain what you do in a compelling way.
- Engage in Conversations: Don’t just collect business cards—talk to people, ask insightful questions, and share your experiences.
- Follow Up: A quick LinkedIn message or email after the event keeps the connection alive.
London’s tech events offer invaluable opportunities to build relationships, discover job openings, and stay updated on industry trends. If you want to grow in tech, showing up at the right places can make all the difference.
How to Network in Tech
Networking in tech isn’t about forcing conversations or desperately handing out business cards—it’s about building genuine relationships with the right people. Whether you’re a beginner or an industry veteran, the way you connect with others can open doors you never imagined.
Start with the Right Mindset
Many people approach networking with a “what can I get?” mentality. That’s the wrong way to do it. Instead, think about how you can add value to others. When you offer insights, share useful resources, or help someone without expecting anything in return, people remember you.
Where to Find Networking Opportunities
Networking happens both online and offline. Here’s where to start:
- Tech Events & Conferences – From global summits to local meetups, in-person events help you build strong professional relationships.
- LinkedIn & Twitter (X) – Follow industry leaders, engage in discussions, and share insights to get noticed.
- Slack & Discord Communities – Many tech professionals connect in industry-specific groups for developers, designers, and marketers.
- Tech Webinars & Online Workshops – Virtual events allow you to interact with experts and like-minded peers from anywhere.
How to Make Networking Work for You
- Be Intentional About Who You Connect With
It’s not about quantity but quality. Instead of trying to meet everyone, focus on building deeper connections with a few key people who align with your career goals. - Master the Art of Conversation
Avoid generic small talk. Ask about their latest projects, opinions on industry trends, or challenges they’re facing. This makes you more memorable than someone who just says, “So, what do you do?” - Have an Online Presence
Your LinkedIn profile, personal website, or GitHub account should showcase what you do. If someone searches for you after a conversation, make sure they find something valuable. - Follow Up Without Being Annoying
Met someone interesting at an event? Send a follow-up message on LinkedIn or email within a few days. Remind them of your conversation and keep it brief. If there’s a way you can help them, even better. - Stay Consistent
Networking isn’t a one-time thing. Keep showing up at events, engaging online, and checking in with people you’ve met. Long-term relationships lead to real opportunities.
When done right, networking in tech isn’t just about career advancement—it’s about building a strong professional community. The more you give, the more valuable your network becomes.
How to Network at Tech Events
Attending tech events is one of the best ways to meet industry professionals, gain insights, and make valuable connections. But simply showing up isn’t enough—you need a plan to make the most of it.
1. Choose the Right Events
Not all tech events are created equal. Some are better suited for networking than others. Before registering, consider:
- Industry relevance – Is the event related to your field (e.g., AI, cybersecurity, SaaS, Web3)?
- Attendee list – Will there be professionals, recruiters, or company executives you’d like to meet?
- Event type – Conferences, hackathons, workshops, and meetups all offer different networking dynamics.
Some of the best global tech networking events include:
- Web Summit (Lisbon)
- CES (Las Vegas)
- London Tech Week
- Dublin Tech Summit
- Startup Grind Global Conference
For local meetups, check platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup.com, and LinkedIn Events.
2. Set Clear Networking Goals
Before stepping into an event, ask yourself:
✔ Who do I want to meet? (Speakers, recruiters, potential collaborators?)
✔ What do I want to achieve? (Job opportunities, partnerships, mentorship?)
✔ What’s my elevator pitch? (A short intro about who you are and what you do.)
This ensures that you network with purpose instead of just wandering around.
3. Make a Strong First Impression
You don’t get a second chance at a first impression. Keep these tips in mind:
- Confidence is key – Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and offer a firm handshake.
- Keep your introduction short – Say who you are, what you do, and why you’re there. Example:“Hey, I’m [Your Name]. I specialize in [your field] and I’m here to meet industry experts and learn more about [topic]. How about you?”
- Ask open-ended questions – Instead of “What do you do?” try:
- “What excites you most about your work?”
- “What trends do you think will shape the industry?”
This makes conversations more engaging and memorable.
4. Master the Art of Small Talk
Not every conversation has to be about work. Sometimes, casual topics lead to stronger connections. If you’re nervous about breaking the ice, use these:
- “What’s the best talk you’ve attended today?”
- “How did you first get into tech?”
- “Have you been to this event before?”
The goal is to build rapport naturally before diving into professional discussions.
5. Use Social Media to Stay Visible
Live-tweeting, posting event insights on LinkedIn, or tagging speakers on Instagram keeps you on people’s radar. Some strategies:
- Share key takeaways from panel discussions.
- Post a LinkedIn update with pictures and lessons learned.
- Engage with the event hashtag to connect with attendees online.
Many people follow up with connections they interacted with online during an event.
6. Follow Up After the Event
Networking doesn’t end when the event is over. To solidify relationships:
✔ Send a LinkedIn request within 24-48 hours, with a personal message like:
“Hey [Name], great meeting you at [Event Name]! I enjoyed our chat about [topic]. Let’s stay in touch!”
✔ Send a follow-up email if you discussed potential collaborations.
✔ Engage with their content to stay on their radar.
A single tech event can open doors to job opportunities, partnerships, and mentorship—but only if you take action. Show up prepared, be genuine in your interactions, and always follow up.
How to Succeed in the Tech Industry Through Networking
Your technical skills might get you the job, but your network will open bigger doors. The tech industry thrives on collaboration, recommendations, and referrals. If you’re not actively networking, you’re limiting your opportunities. Whether you’re looking for job offers, partnerships, mentorship, or industry insights, the right connections can speed up your success.
Be Intentional About Who You Connect With
Networking isn’t about adding random people on LinkedIn or collecting business cards at events. It’s about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships. Ask yourself:
- Who do I need in my network? Are you looking for mentors, recruiters, investors, or industry peers?
- What can I offer? Expertise, insights, collaborations, or referrals?
- Where can I find the right people? Online tech communities, networking events, and conferences are great places to start.
Instead of trying to know everyone, focus on forming quality relationships with people who align with your goals. A strong, engaged network is better than a large, disconnected one.
Find a Mentor and Offer Value in Return
A mentor can help you avoid costly mistakes and accelerate your growth. But finding one isn’t about randomly messaging industry leaders and asking, “Can you be my mentor?” Instead, follow these steps:
- Identify professionals you admire in your industry. They could be colleagues, senior employees at your company, or influential figures on LinkedIn and Twitter.
- Engage with their content—comment on their posts, ask thoughtful questions, and share your insights.
- Build rapport before making an ask. Instead of directly requesting mentorship, start by seeking advice on a specific challenge.
And if you’re experienced, consider mentoring others. Teaching is a powerful way to deepen your expertise while expanding your professional influence.
Join Active Tech Communities and Participate
The best networking happens before you need it. If you only reach out to people when you’re job-hunting, you’re already at a disadvantage. Instead, be part of ongoing discussions in tech communities where professionals exchange insights and opportunities.
Here are some great places to get started:
- LinkedIn Groups – Join discussions in your niche, share insights, and connect with professionals.
- Twitter (X) Tech Circles – Follow and engage with tech influencers, hiring managers, and industry leaders.
- Slack & Discord Communities – Many tech groups exist for developers, AI enthusiasts, and digital marketers.
- Reddit Forums – Subreddits like r/cscareerquestions and r/webdev have active discussions.
The more you contribute, the more people recognize your name—and the more opportunities naturally come your way.
Attend Conferences, Meetups, and Hackathons
If you’re serious about growing in tech, don’t underestimate the power of in-person events. Conferences, workshops, and hackathons bring together industry professionals, hiring managers, and founders in one place. These events aren’t just about learning—they’re about meeting the right people.
To make the most of these opportunities:
- Prepare an introduction – A short, confident way to explain who you are and what you do.
- Engage in conversations – Don’t just listen; ask insightful questions and share your thoughts.
- Follow up – After the event, send a LinkedIn request with a brief message referencing your conversation.
Hackathons are especially great for showcasing your skills. Even if you don’t win, the people you meet could lead to job referrals, collaborations, or freelance gigs.
Use Employee and Alumni Networks to Your Advantage
Sometimes, the best career opportunities come from connections you already have. Many companies prefer to hire through referrals because it reduces hiring risks. If you’re job-hunting, your first step should be reaching out to:
- Former classmates or bootcamp alumni – They may have leads on job openings.
- Past and current colleagues – Someone at your workplace could connect you with recruiters.
- Friends in the industry – A casual chat might lead to an unexpected opportunity.
A simple message like “Hey [Name], I saw you’re working at [Company]. I’d love to hear about your experience there!” can spark valuable career conversations.
Give Before You Ask
One of the biggest networking mistakes? Only reaching out when you need something. Networking works best when you focus on giving value first—whether it’s sharing job opportunities, providing helpful insights, or simply supporting someone’s work.
Ways to do this include:
- Recommending a job posting to someone who might be a great fit.
- Engaging with and sharing others’ content on LinkedIn or Twitter.
- Offering help with a project, even if it’s just providing feedback.
When you give value consistently, you won’t have to struggle to find opportunities—people will naturally think of you when something relevant comes up.
Social Media & Digital Networking for Tech Professionals
You don’t always have to attend physical events to build valuable connections in tech. Social media is one of the most powerful networking tools available, and if used correctly, it can open doors to new opportunities.
Optimizing Your LinkedIn, Twitter, and GitHub for Networking
Your online presence is often the first impression you make. Here’s how to ensure it works in your favor:
- LinkedIn: Keep your profile updated with a professional photo, a strong headline, and a compelling summary. Use keywords relevant to your industry so recruiters and peers can find you easily.
- Twitter (X): Follow industry leaders, engage in relevant discussions, and share insights about tech trends. A well-timed comment on a popular thread can spark valuable connections.
- GitHub: If you’re a developer, an active GitHub profile showcasing your contributions can attract recruiters and like-minded professionals. Regularly update your repositories and contribute to open-source projects.
Engaging with Industry Leaders and Recruiters Online
- Comment on posts: Thoughtful engagement on LinkedIn or Twitter can get you noticed. Avoid generic comments—add value by sharing insights or asking meaningful questions.
- Join discussions: Participate in Twitter Spaces, LinkedIn groups, or relevant Subreddits. These spaces provide direct access to industry experts and recruiters.
- Attend virtual networking events: Many industry professionals host online meetups or Q&A sessions where you can interact without leaving home.
Posting Valuable Content & Participating in Discussions
Networking isn’t just about reaching out—it’s also about attracting connections. One of the best ways to do this is by creating valuable content.
- Share lessons from your work experience.
- Post about industry trends, coding challenges, or career tips.
- Write LinkedIn articles or Twitter threads on tech topics you’re passionate about.
The more you engage, the more people will recognize your name, making it easier to build meaningful professional relationships.
Internal Networking: Building Strong Connections Within Your Company
Networking isn’t just about meeting new people outside your workplace. Some of the most valuable connections you’ll ever make are within your own company. Building strong relationships with colleagues, managers, and other teams can open doors to career growth, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities that accelerate your success. Yet, many professionals overlook this, focusing solely on external connections. But the truth is, the people you work with daily can have a direct impact on your career trajectory.
Developing good internal relationships increases your visibility within the company. When opportunities arise—whether for a promotion, a leadership role, or a high-impact project—managers and decision-makers are more likely to consider employees they know and trust. It also makes collaboration smoother. If you have strong connections across different departments, it becomes easier to work together, solve problems, and drive innovation within the company.
One way to build internal relationships is by engaging with colleagues outside your immediate team. Volunteering for cross-functional projects gives you exposure to different teams and decision-makers. Attending company events, whether formal training sessions or informal gatherings, also helps you interact with people you don’t usually work with. Even something as simple as participating actively in meetings and sharing valuable insights can make others see you as a team player. The more involved you are, the more people recognize your contributions.
When leaving a job, maintaining good relationships with colleagues and managers is just as important as networking within the company. The tech industry is a small world, and the way you exit can impact your career down the line. Many professionals find opportunities through referrals from former colleagues, so keeping those relationships intact is a smart move. Expressing gratitude, offering to stay in touch, and ensuring a smooth transition create a lasting positive impression that can benefit you in the future.
Common Networking Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Networking isn’t always easy, and for many professionals, it can feel uncomfortable or even intimidating. One of the biggest challenges is being an introvert in a space that often rewards outgoing personalities. If striking up conversations at events feels overwhelming, focus on smaller, more manageable interactions. Arriving early to events, engaging in one-on-one discussions, and preparing a few talking points in advance can help ease the anxiety. Online networking is also a great alternative, allowing you to connect with industry professionals at your own pace without the pressure of face-to-face interactions.
Another common hurdle is imposter syndrome—the nagging feeling that you’re not qualified enough to be in certain spaces. It’s easy to compare yourself to experienced professionals and feel like you don’t belong, but the reality is that most people, even the most accomplished ones, have felt this way at some point. The key is to remind yourself that networking isn’t about proving anything. It’s about learning, growing, and making connections. Instead of focusing on what you lack, approach conversations with curiosity. Ask insightful questions, listen attentively, and provide value where you can.
Following up is another challenge many struggle with. You might have a great conversation at an event, but what happens afterward? The fear of being annoying or coming across as too pushy can prevent you from reaching out. The best way to follow up is to keep it simple and natural. A short LinkedIn message referencing your conversation, a quick thank-you email, or even engaging with their content online keeps the connection alive without being overbearing. Consistency is what turns a one-time meeting into a long-term professional relationship.
Conclusion
Networking in the tech industry isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about building meaningful relationships that can shape your career. From attending industry events to engaging with peers online, every interaction is an opportunity to learn, grow, and open new doors. Strong professional connections can lead to mentorship, job referrals, collaborations, and even unexpected career shifts. The key is to be intentional, consistent, and willing to offer value in every relationship you build.
If you’re ready to take action, start by refining your online presence, reaching out to industry professionals, and attending at least one tech event in the coming months. Make an effort to engage in conversations, follow up after meetings, and stay active in communities that align with your goals. Networking isn’t a one-time effort—it’s a continuous process that requires effort and authenticity.
Most importantly, don’t let fear or hesitation hold you back. Whether you’re introverted or new to the industry, stepping out of your comfort zone is the only way to grow. The tech world thrives on collaboration, and your next big opportunity could come from a conversation you haven’t had yet. So start now, build relationships, and watch how networking transforms your career.
