Q: The idea of networking has always made me hesitant. It sounds very transactional – give and take – and that’s a huge turnoff to me. Besides, my parents weren’t born in the U.S., so they aren’t comfortable with networking norms, and they haven’t been able to guide me as I get started in my career. 

The problem is, even if I wanted to network, I don’t have anything valuable to offer to more senior people I’d like to connect with and learn from. I don’t want to be a taker or appear as if I am using people. Unlike a lot of my peers, I’m actually comfortable talking to people. Still, I freeze up when it comes to reaching out professionally because I worry I’ll come across as asking for favors I can’t repay. I will be finishing my Master’s Degree soon, so I need to figure this out. How do I approach networking when I genuinely have nothing to give back right now? – Priya, 24

A. Your question is one I hear pretty often from early-career professionals and from those who haven’t made networking a habit. Also, networking doesn’t have to be transactional. Rather, think of it as meeting interesting people you can learn from. And, yes, you want to feel like you have something to contribute, so here’s the good news: you actually have more to offer than you realize! ✨

Here are 7 valuable things you can bring to networking:

1. Fresh perspective and energy. You see industries and problems with new eyes, unburdened by “we’ve always done it this way” thinking. Your questions and observations can be genuinely refreshing for experienced professionals deep in their routines.
   
2. Current knowledge. As a soon-to-be grad, you’re closer to recent academic research, emerging tools, new methodologies, and what’s being taught now. You might know about AI tools, social media trends, or technical skills that aren’t yet widespread in their organization.
   
3. Reverse mentoring. Many senior professionals want to understand generational shifts, how younger people think, or what early-career talent is looking for. Your insights into Gen Z workplace expectations or how your peers consume media can be really valuable.
   
4. Genuine enthusiasm and curiosity. Asking thoughtful questions isn’t taking; it’s giving someone the gift of talking about what they’re passionate about. Most people genuinely enjoy sharing their knowledge when someone is authentically interested.
   
5. Future connections. Today’s connection is tomorrow’s colleague, founder, or industry expert. The person you’re talking to knows this, so they are always on the lookout for rising stars.
   
6. Practical help. Offer to do research, share relevant articles you come across, make introductions to professors or other students, beta test something, or provide feedback from a user perspective.
   
7. Follow up. Follow them on LinkedIn and send them a message within 48 hours. Don’t just say “nice to meet you.” Do what you said you would do (e.g., send them an article, make an introduction). Or mention a particular part of your conversation: “I’ve been thinking about what you said about pivoting from consulting to startups,” or “I looked up that book you recommended on negotiation.”

The key shift for you to make is moving from “I need something from you” to “I’m interested in what you do and I’d love to stay connected.” That genuine interest and follow-through is itself valuable.

You are equipt to offer value in networking.