The Networking Compass: Finding Your True North

Ever left a networking event feeling like this?

Like you were pulled in 50 directions, but still somehow ended up getting nowhere?

Like you missed opportunities and that it was a waste of time?

You’re not alone.

Many networkers approach networking with no clear sense of direction.

Leading to aimless conversations, missed opportunities, and that frustrating feeling of wasted time.

Sound familiar?

Today, I’m introducing you to the Networking Compass - a simple framework to help you stay focused, stay aligned with your networking goals.

And to say goodbye to wasted time.

Let’s dive in.

Why You Need a Networking Compass

Think of a networking event as a vast forest.

Without a compass, you’re just wandering aimlessly.

You may stumble upon some interesting paths, but you’ll most likely get lost or spend time in places that don’t serve you.

The Networking Compass is your tool to:

• Stay grounded in why you're networking.
• Evaluate if an event or opportunity aligns with your goals.
• Avoid distractions that pull you away from meaningful connections.

When you have a clear sense of direction, every conversation becomes more purposeful.

The Four Points of Networking 🧭

Your Networking Compass consists of four cardinal points (as you might already be expecting):

North, East, South, and West.

North: Your Purpose

What’s your ultimate reason for networking?

For example, are you seeking referrals? Looking to learn? Exploring collaborations? Building your personal brand?

Define your purpose clearly.

Action: Before every event, write down your primary goal.

It could be something like:

• "I’d like to meet three potential collaborators in [specific industry]."
• "I’d like to learn how others are navigating [specific challenge]."
• "I’d like help with meeting [specific types of businesses]."
• “I’d like to raise awareness of [specific expertise].”

By identifying your "North," you have a reference point to guide your conversations and you to the right people.

East: Who Can Help?

Who are the people that align with your purpose?

Not everyone at an event will be a fit - and that’s okay.

Instead of trying to connect with everyone, focus on individuals who can help you move toward your goals (and who you can help in return).

Action: Research the event’s guest list. Ask yourself:

• Who might have shared interests or challenges?
• Who has complementary skills or networks?

Remember, quality beats quantity every time here.

Bonus: the 3 Who’s Framework to research a guest list will come in handy here too.

South: Your Value

Networking is a two-way street.

What are you bringing to the table?

When you’re clear on the value you provide, you’ll attract the right people and build stronger connections.

Action: Prepare a few value-driven conversation starters and builders:

• "I’ve been working on [specific project]; here’s what I’ve learned."
• "I specialise in helping [specific group] solve [specific problem]."
• "I recently came across [insightful resource]; it might be helpful to you."

​Crafting the perfect introduction or value statement can help here too.

Be ready to share - but also to listen.

The best networkers are curious and interested in giving value to others.

West: The Next Step

Every great conversation should end with a clear next step.

This ensures your connection doesn’t fade into the abyss of forgotten business cards.

Action: Before you leave a conversation, ask yourself:

• "What’s the best way to follow up with this person?"
• "Is there a specific reason to reconnect?"
• "How can I keep this relationship warm over time?"

Whether it’s a LinkedIn connection, a coffee, or a shared resource, make your follow-up meaningful.

Then apply the 12-4-1 Follow Up Framework to ensure no connection or conversation ever goes cold again.

Putting It All Together

Here’s how the Networking Compass plays out in real life:

1. Before an event, define your "North" (purpose) and prepare your "South" (value).
2. At the event, use your "East" (who can help) to identify who to connect with.
3. End every meaningful conversation by planning your "West" (next step).

The result?

Less walking away from events feeling like time wasted, drained, and directionless.

More leaving events excited about the connections you’ve made.

The Wrap-Up

Networking is a skill.

But it’s also a balancing act.

It’s a balance of intention with authenticity. Of strategy with spontaneity.

By all means explore naturally and leave room for serendipity.

The Networking Compass is there to give you focus and direction.

Now, go find your true north and make those connections count.

Happy networking!