Redefining networking: How to build lasting career momentum

Most of us dread “networking”, the awkward small talk, the forced introductions, the feeling of wanting to disappear under the canapé table. But Movemeon’s co-founder, Rich, argues that this isn’t networking at all. Find his advice below!

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Picture the scene.

You've just arrived at a corporate venue. You've picked up your name badge. You're thrust into a room full of people you don't know.

You feel obliged to try & scurry around introducing yourself to folks you'll probably never see again. If you're honest with yourself, you're tempted to hide under the canapé table. And you'll definitely find an excuse for an early exit.

This is what most people picture when we use the term "networking". And it understandably makes most of us want to run a mile.

What's more, it's almost totally ineffective. These aren't people who know you. So how can they trust you or advocate for you?

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So what is a better definition?

"Keeping in touch with people who know your capabilities & will advocate for you."

Typically these are people you've worked or partnered with in the past. Probably peers or former bosses. People who know you & like you. Or they might be people that those people have introduced you to with their backing.

When you reframe networking like this, your shoulders relax. In fact, you can picture that re-connecting with these people might actually be quite enjoyable.

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It's the network of their network where most opportunity lies.

Don't get me wrong. If you keep up with this group, it's not uncommon that one of them will give you a call at some point and ask you to join their team. (The timing might not be right. The opportunity might not be right. But it's always great to be asked).

Much more likely is that they'll think of you when someone in their network is chatting to them. It could be that their friend wants an expert point of view. Or a supplier recommendation. Or that they're building a new team and asking for suggestions. Either way, you'll be front of mind for an introduction.
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So what are my 8 tips for re-booting your networking and making it both sustainable & impactful?

1. Write a short list. 15-30 people who know your capabilities (ideally peers or seniors).
2. Put them in a spreadsheet / Trello board / other type of simple tracker.
3. Don't be scared to get back in touch with people you've lost touch with - you'll be surprised just how many are happy to hear from you.
4. Make a simple, realistic goal. E.g, meet 1 person per month (assuming you're in a full time job; stretch this target if you're actively job seeking).
5. Don't be transactional. This is about building trusted relationships.
6. Do be intentional. People who know & trust you are happy advise or support you.
7. Be resilient & systematic. If they didn't reply to your first message, follow up 1 week later (it's not because they dislike you; it's because they're busy & forgot to email back).
8. Give as well as take. Make thoughtful connections for these people. And lean into people trying to network with you. Remember how you feel about that person who is only in touch with you when they want something (we all know one). Don't be that person. Instead, "pay it forward" - good karma quickly comes around.

Implement these 8 simple tactics to make networking easy, enjoyable & accelerate your career.

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About Rich and how you can work together

Rich started his career at McKinsey before working as a freelance consultant alongside co-founding Movemeon. Over 15 years he's helped over 5,000 organisations to hire - organisations of all sizes in all industries, globally - and developed a unique overview of what works to build successful, happy careers right up to CEO level.

He has always given advice via LinkedIn message to anyone who's asked for it. And in 2025 - encouraged by his network - he formalised this through the creation of OnUpBeyond .

The 2025 pilot of his career advisory sessions was massively oversubscribed, despite a price point in the thousands 000's. Those who managed to grab a place consistently reviewed the experience as 5*.

In July 2025, he relaunched his support in a truly accessible way via The Career Momentum Hour.

• Ask your questions for expert advice tailored to you.
• Weekly advisory sessions - listen in live or catchup in your own time via recordings.
• Regular senior guest speakers from CEOs, to Investment Directors to startup Founders to Exec Search bosses.
• Peer mentorship - your champion & trusted sounding board.

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