What Is Networking in Consulting? Tips and Strategies for Success

What Is Networking in Consulting?

Networking in consulting refers to the process of building and maintaining professional relationships within the industry. Whether you’re an aspiring consultant, an independent professional, or a seasoned consultant at a top firm, effective networking is essential for career growth, securing new opportunities, and staying informed about industry trends.

Unlike traditional networking, which often focuses on general business connections, consulting networking is highly strategic. It involves engaging with firm recruiters, senior consultants, clients, and industry experts to create meaningful relationships that can lead to job referrals, project collaborations, and career advancement.

Why Is Networking Important in Consulting?

Networking is a crucial component of success in the consulting industry. Here’s why:

• Access to Hidden Job Opportunities – Many consulting firms fill positions through referrals before they are publicly advertised. Building a strong network increases the likelihood of receiving inside information about upcoming opportunities.
• Client and Business Development – For independent consultants and partners in consulting firms, networking helps secure new clients and projects. Establishing a solid reputation within the industry can lead to direct referrals and repeat business.
• Knowledge Sharing and Industry Insights – Consulting is a dynamic industry with rapidly evolving trends. Networking with peers, mentors, and industry leaders keeps consultants informed about best practices, emerging technologies, and new methodologies.
• Career Growth and Advancement – Strong relationships with senior consultants and partners can open doors for mentorship, sponsorship, and leadership opportunities within top consulting firms.

Example: The Role of Networking in Securing a Consulting Job

Consider the case of Emily, a recent MBA graduate aiming for a role at McKinsey & Company. Instead of relying solely on online applications, she reached out to an alumnus from her business school who was a consultant at McKinsey. Through this connection, she gained insights into the firm’s recruitment process, refined her resume with personalized feedback, and eventually secured a referral for an interview. This highlights how networking can significantly impact career progression in consulting.

The Importance of Networking in Consulting

Networking is a fundamental skill for success in consulting, influencing career growth, business development, and industry reputation. Whether you are an aspiring consultant looking to break into a top firm or an experienced professional seeking new clients, networking can open doors that would otherwise remain closed.

Expanding Career Opportunities

Many consulting firms, including McKinsey, BCG, and Bain, rely heavily on referrals and internal recommendations when hiring new consultants. A strong network can give you access to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised. Firms prioritize candidates who come recommended by their employees because they trust internal referrals to bring in high-quality talent.

According to a LinkedIn report, nearly 85% of jobs are filled through networking rather than online applications. This statistic highlights the importance of building and maintaining professional connections in the consulting industry.

Example: James, a strategy consultant, initially struggled to secure interviews at top firms despite having strong academic credentials. After attending multiple consulting networking events and building relationships with consultants, he received an internal referral from a McKinsey associate. This referral significantly increased his chances of getting an interview, ultimately leading to a job offer.

Strengthening Client and Business Development

For independent consultants and those in leadership roles at firms, networking is essential for attracting new clients and securing consulting projects. Unlike traditional job seekers, experienced consultants leverage networking to build long-term professional relationships with business leaders who may require consulting services in the future.

Example: A mid-sized consulting firm specializing in digital transformation landed a $500,000 project with a Fortune 500 company after its managing partner reconnected with a former client at an industry conference. The personal relationship built over years of networking played a crucial role in securing the deal.

Gaining Industry Insights and Expertise

Networking allows consultants to stay ahead of industry trends, best practices, and new methodologies. Engaging in conversations with peers, mentors, and industry leaders provides access to valuable insights that may not be available through traditional research.

Attending industry conferences, joining professional groups on LinkedIn, and participating in consulting forums are excellent ways to gain first-hand knowledge about emerging trends, such as AI-driven consulting solutions, sustainability strategies, and digital transformation frameworks.

A study by Harvard Business Review found that highly networked professionals are 3X more likely to stay informed about industry changes and innovations compared to those who rely solely on internal knowledge.

Building Long-Term Career Resilience

Consulting careers can be unpredictable, with economic downturns and firm restructuring leading to job uncertainties. A well-established network serves as a safety net, helping consultants navigate career transitions more smoothly. Professionals with a strong network find it easier to secure new opportunities, whether through referrals, contract work, or partnerships.

Example: During the 2020 economic downturn, many consultants faced layoffs as firms reduced their workforce. Those with an active professional network were able to pivot quickly, securing freelance consulting gigs, joining boutique firms, or transitioning into in-house corporate roles through industry connections.

The Consulting Mindset: Networking as a Continuous Process

Unlike transactional networking, where individuals connect solely for immediate benefits, successful consultants treat networking as an ongoing process. Developing genuine, long-term relationships with peers, clients, and mentors enhances credibility and trust.

A well-maintained network provides lasting professional benefits, including mentorship, partnership opportunities, and career growth. Whether engaging in casual coffee chats, participating in alumni groups, or staying in touch with former colleagues, consistent networking efforts yield significant returns over time.

Types of Networking Opportunities

Consultants have multiple avenues to build their professional networks, ranging from in-person events to digital platforms. A strong networking strategy involves leveraging various opportunities to connect with industry professionals, firm recruiters, and potential clients. Below are the most effective networking channels for consultants.

In-Person Networking

Meeting people face-to-face is one of the most powerful ways to establish meaningful professional relationships. Attending industry events, firm-sponsored meetups, and business conferences allows consultants to connect with influential professionals in a more personal and impactful way.

Industry Conferences and Trade Shows

Conferences bring together industry leaders, consultants, and potential clients, making them an excellent platform for networking. Events such as the Global Consulting Summit, the Management Consulting Association Conference, and niche industry expos provide opportunities to learn from experts while expanding professional connections.

Example: A consultant specializing in digital transformation attended the Gartner IT Symposium and connected with executives from Fortune 500 companies. A year later, one of these connections led to a major consulting contract worth over $200,000.

Consulting Firm Networking Events

Top consulting firms regularly host networking events, information sessions, and case workshops to engage with potential candidates and industry professionals. These events provide direct access to firm representatives, allowing attendees to ask questions, gain insights into company culture, and establish relationships that could lead to referrals.

Example: An MBA student interested in joining Bain & Company attended a campus networking event where he met a senior consultant. After maintaining regular contact and demonstrating interest, he received an internal referral, increasing his chances of securing an interview.

Alumni and Professional Association Meetups

University alumni networks and industry associations offer a great way to connect with professionals who share a common background. Many top consultants remain active in their alma mater’s alumni network, mentoring aspiring consultants and providing career advice.

Example: A former Deloitte consultant found his next career opportunity through a LinkedIn alumni group, where an ex-colleague posted about a new consulting role at a boutique strategy firm.

Coffee Chats and Informational Interviews

One-on-one meetings are highly effective for building strong professional relationships. Reaching out to consultants for coffee chats or virtual informational interviews allows candidates to gain career advice, industry insights, and potential referrals.

Example: A job seeker interested in strategy consulting scheduled coffee chats with five consultants at different firms. One of these conversations resulted in an internal recommendation, ultimately leading to an interview invitation at BCG.

Online Networking

Virtual networking has become increasingly important, providing professionals with convenient ways to connect across geographies and time zones. Digital platforms allow consultants to build their presence, engage in meaningful discussions, and establish credibility within their industry.

LinkedIn and Professional Networking Platforms

LinkedIn is a vital tool for consultants looking to expand their network. Engaging with posts, joining consulting-related groups, and reaching out to professionals for informational chats can open doors to new opportunities.

Best practices for networking on LinkedIn include:

• Sending personalized connection requests with a brief message explaining why you want to connect.
• Sharing insights and engaging with industry discussions to increase visibility.
• Endorsing skills and writing recommendations to strengthen professional relationships.

Consulting Forums and Online Communities

Industry-specific forums and platforms such as Management Consulted, PrepLounge, and CaseCoach offer consultants a space to connect, discuss industry trends, and seek career advice. Actively participating in discussions can help establish credibility and attract new professional connections.

Example: A consultant preparing for a case interview contributed to discussions on a consulting forum. A month later, a hiring manager from a boutique firm reached out after reading one of his insightful posts, leading to a job opportunity.

Virtual Webinars and Online Conferences

Online events have gained traction as a valuable networking tool, especially for busy consultants. Webinars hosted by consulting firms, business schools, and industry leaders provide an opportunity to learn from experts while interacting with other attendees.

Many virtual conferences include breakout rooms, Q&A sessions, and networking lounges where participants can connect and exchange contact information.

Social Media and Thought Leadership

Beyond LinkedIn, consultants can use platforms like Twitter, Medium, and Substack to share industry insights, case study analyses, and career advice. Publishing high-quality content and engaging with influencers in the consulting space can help build a strong personal brand.

Example: A management consultant started writing LinkedIn posts on strategy frameworks and consulting methodologies. Over time, these posts attracted a following, leading to speaking invitations and direct client inquiries.

Choosing the Right Networking Strategy

The most effective networking strategy combines both in-person and online efforts. Building a diverse professional network requires attending relevant events, maintaining an active digital presence, and nurturing relationships over time.

Consultants who consistently engage with their network, offer value, and stay connected with industry professionals are more likely to unlock new career and business opportunities.

Building an Effective Network

Successful networking in consulting is not just about meeting new people; it requires a strategic approach to building and maintaining professional relationships. An effective network provides access to career opportunities, industry insights, and long-term collaborations. Below are key steps to building a strong network in consulting.

Identifying Key Contacts

Not all connections hold the same value when it comes to networking in consulting. Identifying and engaging with the right professionals increases the chances of building meaningful and beneficial relationships.

Targeting Consultants at Different Levels

Connecting with professionals at different levels within a consulting firm offers multiple advantages. While senior consultants and partners can provide mentorship and potential referrals, early-career consultants can share valuable insights about the recruitment process and company culture.

Example: A candidate applying to McKinsey reached out to both an associate partner and a business analyst. The partner provided high-level career advice, while the analyst shared detailed tips about the case interview process. This combined perspective helped the candidate refine their application and interview strategy.

Engaging with Alumni and Industry Professionals

University alumni networks and professional organizations are valuable resources for expanding one’s network. Alumni are often more receptive to outreach from fellow graduates, making them a great starting point for networking.

Example: An MBA student leveraged his school’s alumni network to connect with a Deloitte consultant. After an insightful conversation, the consultant offered to refer him for an upcoming position, significantly improving his chances of landing an interview.

Approaching Potential Connections

Networking is most effective when done with a thoughtful and personalized approach. Sending generic messages or asking for favors without offering value can lead to ignored requests.

Crafting Personalized Outreach Messages

A well-crafted message increases the likelihood of receiving a response. When reaching out to consultants, it is important to personalize the message by mentioning shared connections, common interests, or specific reasons for reaching out.

Best practices for networking messages:

• Keep the message concise and respectful of the recipient’s time.
• Mention a common connection, mutual interest, or specific reason for reaching out.
• Clearly state what you are hoping to gain from the conversation.

Example of a good LinkedIn outreach message:

"Hi [Consultant’s Name], I came across your profile while researching [Firm Name] and noticed your experience in [specific practice area]. As someone interested in [field], I would love to hear your insights on [specific topic]. If you’re available, I’d appreciate a quick chat at your convenience. Thanks for your time!"

Utilizing Mutual Connections for Introductions

A warm introduction from a mutual contact is often more effective than a cold outreach. Asking a shared connection to introduce you to a consultant increases the chances of a positive response.

Example: A candidate interested in joining BCG asked a former classmate who worked at the firm to introduce him to a senior consultant. Because of this introduction, the candidate was able to have a productive networking call and later received a referral.

Nurturing Relationships Beyond the First Interaction

Effective networking is not just about making initial connections; it also involves maintaining and strengthening those relationships over time.

Providing Value to Your Network

Networking should be a two-way street. Instead of only reaching out when in need of a favor, offering value to your contacts strengthens the relationship. This can be done by sharing useful articles, introducing people within your network, or offering insights on a relevant topic.

Example: A consultant who frequently shares industry reports and career opportunities with their network is more likely to receive referrals and job leads in return.

Following Up and Staying in Touch

A well-timed follow-up message helps sustain professional relationships. Expressing gratitude and keeping contacts updated on career progress helps keep the connection active.

Best practices for staying in touch:

• Send a thank-you note after an informational interview or networking event.
• Reach out periodically with a relevant update, such as a career change or an article of interest.
• Congratulate connections on their achievements, such as promotions or new roles.

Example: After a networking call with a consulting manager, a candidate sent a follow-up email thanking them for their time and mentioning how their advice was helpful. A few months later, when a job opening became available, the manager reached out to the candidate to encourage them to apply.

Leveraging Networking for Career Advancement

A well-built network is a powerful asset in consulting. Professionals who actively engage with their connections and provide value to others are more likely to receive referrals, career advice, and business opportunities. By approaching networking strategically and maintaining long-term relationships, consultants can create lasting career benefits.

Strategies for Successful Networking

Building a strong professional network in consulting requires more than just making connections; it involves a strategic approach to engagement, relationship-building, and follow-up. Effective networking can lead to valuable job referrals, industry insights, and long-term career growth. Below are key strategies to ensure networking success in the consulting industry.

Preparation Before Networking

Successful networking starts long before the first conversation. Being well-prepared ensures that interactions are meaningful and leave a lasting impression.

Researching Individuals and Firms

Before attending an event or reaching out to a consultant, it is important to gather relevant information about the person, their firm, and their area of expertise. This allows for more informed conversations and demonstrates genuine interest.

Best practices for researching before networking:

• Review the individual’s LinkedIn profile and professional background.
• Understand the firm’s latest projects, focus areas, and industry trends.
• Identify common interests or mutual connections to personalize outreach.

Example: A candidate interested in digital strategy at BCG researched a senior consultant’s published articles before a networking call. Referencing the consultant’s insights during the conversation led to a more engaging discussion and strengthened the connection.

Refining Your Personal Introduction

First impressions matter in networking. Having a well-structured introduction, often referred to as an elevator pitch, helps convey key information about your background, interests, and career goals concisely.

A strong introduction should:

• Include a brief summary of your background (education, work experience, or industry focus).
• Highlight your interest in consulting or a specific firm.
• End with a question or statement that invites further discussion.

Example: "Hi, I’m Alex, an MBA student with a background in corporate strategy. I’m passionate about data-driven decision-making and have been exploring opportunities in management consulting. I saw that you’ve worked extensively in digital transformation. What do you think are the key challenges in that space?"

Engaging in Meaningful Conversations

Once a connection is made, the goal is to have a productive and engaging conversation. Asking thoughtful questions and showing a genuine interest in the other person’s experiences can help build rapport.

Asking Insightful Questions

Rather than asking generic questions, focusing on topics that are specific and relevant to the person’s expertise makes the conversation more valuable.

Examples of good questions:

• What do you enjoy most about working at your consulting firm?
• What advice would you give to someone looking to transition into consulting?
• How did your career path lead you to your current role?
• What industry trends do you think will shape consulting in the next five years?

Example: A candidate networking with a McKinsey consultant asked about the consultant’s experience on a recent client engagement rather than general hiring tips. This led to a deeper conversation about project challenges and problem-solving approaches.

Demonstrating Active Listening

Networking is not just about speaking; it is equally important to listen actively. Showing genuine interest in the other person’s insights and responding thoughtfully helps create a more meaningful connection.

Techniques for active listening:

• Summarizing key points shared by the other person.
• Asking follow-up questions to show engagement.
• Maintaining eye contact and avoiding distractions during conversations.

Following Up and Maintaining Connections

The value of networking comes from maintaining relationships over time, not just from a single interaction. Following up properly ensures that connections remain active and beneficial in the long run.

Sending Personalized Follow-Up Messages

A thoughtful follow-up message after a networking event or conversation helps reinforce the connection and express appreciation.

Best practices for follow-ups:

• Send a thank-you message within 24 to 48 hours.
• Mention specific takeaways from the conversation.
• Express interest in staying in touch or continuing the discussion.

Example follow-up message:

"Hi [Name], I really appreciate the time you took to share your insights about [firm/industry topic]. Your advice on [specific point] was particularly valuable, and I look forward to applying it as I explore consulting opportunities. I’d love to stay in touch and will keep you updated on my progress. Thanks again!"

Keeping in Touch Over Time

Networking is most effective when relationships are nurtured over time. Periodically checking in with contacts, sharing relevant content, or congratulating them on career achievements helps maintain strong professional relationships.

Ways to stay in touch:

• Share an interesting article or industry update.
• Send a message during holidays or career milestones.
• Reconnect before attending the same event or conference.

Example: A consulting candidate who stayed in touch with a Bain consultant over several months by occasionally sharing insights on industry trends later received a referral when an opening became available.

Networking with a Long-Term Mindset

Successful networking in consulting is not about immediate gains but about building a long-term professional network. By preparing well, engaging meaningfully, and maintaining connections, consultants and aspiring professionals can create lasting relationships that benefit their careers.

Leveraging Networking for Career Advancement

Networking is one of the most effective tools for career growth in consulting. A strong network can provide access to job opportunities, mentorship, professional development, and industry insights that accelerate career progression. By strategically leveraging networking, consultants can gain a competitive edge in their careers.

Securing Referrals and Recommendations

Many top consulting firms prioritize referrals in their hiring process. Candidates who are recommended by current employees are more likely to be invited for interviews compared to those who apply through standard online applications.

Referrals are valuable because firms trust their employees to recommend high-quality candidates. A referral from a consultant or senior manager signals that the candidate is a good cultural and professional fit for the firm.

Example: A candidate applying to BCG had difficulty getting interview invitations through online applications. After reaching out to a former classmate who worked at BCG, they received an internal referral, significantly improving their chances of being selected for an interview.

Best practices for securing referrals:

• Build genuine relationships before asking for a referral.
• Express specific interest in the firm and its work.
• Ask for career advice first, rather than directly requesting a referral.
• Provide a well-prepared resume and be ready to discuss career goals.

Gaining Insights into Firm Cultures and Expectations

Networking helps professionals gain insider knowledge about consulting firms, including their work culture, expectations, and career progression paths. Understanding a firm’s culture can help candidates determine if it is the right fit for them and tailor their applications accordingly.

Consultants within a firm can provide valuable insights on:

• The types of projects the firm focuses on.
• Skills and qualities valued in candidates.
• Work-life balance and firm culture.
• Career growth opportunities within the firm.

Example: A candidate interested in strategy consulting connected with a consultant at McKinsey who explained the differences between working in generalist consulting versus a specialized practice area. This insight helped the candidate refine their application strategy and choose the right consulting track.

Accessing Unadvertised Job Opportunities

Many consulting roles, particularly at boutique and specialized firms, are not publicly advertised. Firms often hire through networking and internal referrals before making positions available to the broader job market. Staying connected with professionals in the industry can lead to early access to job openings.

Example: A consultant looking to transition into sustainability consulting connected with a senior consultant at a niche sustainability firm. A few months later, when a new role opened, the consultant reached out directly before the job was officially posted, giving them a competitive advantage.

Ways to discover unadvertised job opportunities:

• Attend industry networking events and conferences where firms discuss their hiring needs.
• Stay in touch with former colleagues who may know of internal openings.
• Engage in discussions on consulting forums and LinkedIn groups where hiring managers occasionally post about job opportunities.

Developing Long-Term Career Mentorship

Building relationships with experienced consultants can provide long-term career mentorship. Mentors offer guidance on career decisions, professional development, and industry trends, helping individuals navigate their consulting careers more effectively.

A good mentor can:

• Provide career coaching and industry insights.
• Offer advice on difficult career decisions, such as firm transitions or promotions.
• Help expand your professional network by introducing you to valuable contacts.

Example: A junior consultant who maintained a relationship with a former mentor received valuable career advice and an introduction to a partner at another consulting firm, leading to a career advancement opportunity.

Best practices for finding and maintaining mentors:

• Identify professionals whose career paths align with your goals.
• Build relationships naturally rather than asking someone outright to be a mentor.
• Keep in touch by periodically sharing career updates or seeking advice on key career decisions.

Positioning Yourself for Future Leadership Opportunities

Networking is not just about securing a job; it is also about positioning oneself for future leadership roles. Strong professional relationships can help consultants gain visibility, earn promotions, and access high-profile projects.

Ways networking supports leadership growth:

• Building a strong reputation within the industry.
• Gaining sponsorship from senior leaders who advocate for career advancement.
• Expanding influence by connecting with decision-makers and clients.

Example: A senior associate at a consulting firm regularly attended leadership roundtables and built relationships with partners. When a promotion opportunity arose, these connections played a key role in supporting their advancement to manager.

The Power of a Well-Maintained Network

A well-cultivated professional network provides long-term benefits, including job security, career growth, and business development. By leveraging networking effectively, consultants can continuously advance in their careers, discover new opportunities, and build a strong industry presence.

Common Networking Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Networking in consulting can be highly rewarding, but it also comes with challenges that many professionals face. Whether it is dealing with rejection, managing time constraints, or overcoming social discomfort, addressing these obstacles is key to building a strong and effective network. Below are some of the most common networking challenges and strategies to overcome them.

Dealing with Rejection or Non-Responses

Not every outreach attempt will result in a response, and rejection is a natural part of networking. Many consultants receive numerous messages and may not have the time to reply to every request.

Ways to overcome this challenge:

• Send a follow-up message if there is no response after a week, but do not persist beyond two attempts.
• Reach out to multiple professionals instead of relying on a single contact.
• Focus on relationship-building rather than immediate results. Sometimes, professionals may respond at a later time when they are less busy.

Example: A candidate sent an outreach message to a Bain consultant but did not receive a response. Instead of giving up, they connected with another consultant at the firm, who responded positively and provided valuable insights.

Managing Time Constraints

Many consultants, especially those working at top firms, have demanding schedules, making it difficult to allocate time for networking. Similarly, job seekers or professionals looking to expand their networks may struggle to fit networking efforts into their busy routines.

Ways to overcome this challenge:

• Set specific networking goals, such as reaching out to two professionals per week.
• Prioritize quality over quantity by focusing on meaningful interactions rather than sending mass outreach messages.
• Leverage efficient networking methods, such as attending firm-sponsored events where multiple consultants are available in one setting.

Example: A consultant looking to expand their network dedicated 30 minutes every Friday to sending LinkedIn messages and scheduling calls. This structured approach made networking manageable without disrupting their workload.

Overcoming Social Anxiety or Discomfort

Networking can feel intimidating, especially for introverts or those who are not naturally outgoing. Engaging in conversations with senior professionals or unfamiliar contacts may cause anxiety.

Ways to overcome this challenge:

• Prepare talking points and key questions in advance to feel more confident in conversations.
• Start with smaller networking opportunities, such as informational chats with alumni, before moving on to large events.
• Shift the mindset from “selling yourself” to “learning from others” to make interactions feel more natural.

Example: A consulting candidate who was nervous about networking started by reaching out to fellow alumni rather than senior consultants. Over time, they gained confidence and eventually connected with senior professionals at top consulting firms.

Finding the Right People to Connect With

One of the biggest networking challenges is identifying the right people to reach out to. Some professionals struggle with deciding who to connect with and how to find contacts who can provide valuable insights.

Ways to overcome this challenge:

• Use LinkedIn’s advanced search to filter professionals by firm, job title, and shared connections.
• Leverage alumni networks, industry associations, and professional groups to find relevant contacts.
• Attend consulting events, webinars, and panel discussions where consultants are actively engaging with attendees.

Example: A job seeker looking to join a boutique consulting firm struggled to find the right contacts. After joining a consulting-focused LinkedIn group, they discovered professionals working at boutique firms who were open to networking and sharing career advice.

Maintaining Relationships Without Being Overbearing

Building a strong network is not just about making connections but also about maintaining them. Some professionals worry about following up too often and coming across as pushy.

Ways to overcome this challenge:

• Space out follow-ups by a few months instead of sending frequent messages.
• Provide value by sharing relevant articles, industry insights, or congratulating contacts on career achievements.
• Engage naturally by commenting on LinkedIn posts or attending the same professional events.

Example: A junior consultant maintained a connection with a former mentor by periodically checking in every six months, sharing career updates, and congratulating them on professional milestones. This approach helped sustain the relationship without feeling forced.

The Key to Overcoming Networking Challenges

Networking challenges are common, but they should not deter professionals from building strong connections. By being proactive, strategic, and patient, networking can become a natural and rewarding part of career growth. With the right mindset and approach, overcoming these obstacles leads to long-term professional success.

Tips for Sustaining Long-Term Professional Relationships

Networking in consulting is not just about making initial connections; it is about maintaining and strengthening those relationships over time. Building a strong professional network requires ongoing engagement, mutual value exchange, and genuine relationship-building. Below are key strategies to sustain long-term professional connections.

Offer Value Without Expecting Immediate Returns

One of the most effective ways to maintain relationships is by offering value to your network. This could mean sharing industry insights, providing referrals, introducing contacts, or simply supporting others in their professional growth.

Ways to add value to your network:

• Share relevant articles or industry trends with contacts who may find them useful.
• Offer insights or advice if someone seeks guidance in your area of expertise.
• Connect professionals in your network who may benefit from knowing each other.

Example: A consultant who consistently shared industry reports with former colleagues became a trusted resource. When a former colleague moved into a leadership role at a new firm, they reached out to the consultant for a consulting engagement.

Keep in Touch with Periodic Check-Ins

Reaching out only when you need a favor can weaken a professional relationship. Instead, staying in touch through periodic check-ins helps maintain a natural connection over time.

Ways to stay engaged:

• Send a quick message to ask how someone is doing or inquire about their latest projects.
• Reach out during milestones such as promotions, job changes, or career anniversaries.
• Engage with their content on LinkedIn by liking, commenting, or sharing their posts.

Example: A consulting candidate maintained a connection with a firm recruiter by periodically checking in every few months. When a new role opened up, the recruiter reached out to them before posting the job publicly.

Be Genuine and Authentic

Networking should be about building real relationships rather than transactional exchanges. Showing genuine interest in your connections’ success fosters long-term trust and goodwill.

Ways to ensure authenticity in networking:

• Avoid overly formal or scripted messages, as conversations should feel natural.
• Show appreciation for past support without making every interaction about personal gain.
• Take an interest in the other person’s career journey and successes.

Example: A junior consultant who built a strong relationship with a senior mentor continued to engage with them long after their initial career discussions. Years later, the mentor referred them to a leadership role at a top consulting firm.

Stay Active in Professional Communities

Actively participating in professional groups, industry associations, and alumni networks helps keep connections fresh. Regular involvement ensures that your name remains top-of-mind within your professional circle.

Ways to stay engaged in professional communities:

• Join and participate in industry forums, LinkedIn groups, and consulting networks.
• Attend alumni events, webinars, and industry meetups.
• Contribute insights by writing articles, speaking at events, or mentoring others.

Example: A consultant who regularly contributed to discussions in a LinkedIn consulting group became recognized as an industry expert. This visibility led to new networking opportunities and client referrals.

Adapt to Changing Career Paths

As professionals move into new roles, industries, or regions, maintaining flexibility in networking ensures that relationships continue to grow. Staying connected even as career paths evolve allows for future collaborations and opportunities.

Ways to adapt networking to career changes:

• Congratulate connections when they transition to new roles or industries.
• Find new ways to collaborate, even if your career paths diverge.
• Keep track of key contacts and periodically reconnect.

Example: A consultant who moved from strategy consulting to private equity stayed in touch with former colleagues. Years later, they collaborated on a consulting project for the firm’s portfolio company.

The Importance of Long-Term Networking

Sustaining professional relationships requires consistency, authenticity, and a willingness to offer value without expecting immediate returns. By nurturing these connections over time, consultants can build a network that supports career growth, new opportunities, and lasting professional success.