When did networking actually start helping you?
I’ve done a decent number of coffee chats. Conversations are fine, people are nice, but I’m not sure when this is supposed to turn into anything meaningful.
Is there a point where networking “clicks,” or is it always kind of ambiguous? Am I doing it the wrong way?
Genuinely curious how others experienced this.
Honestly, you’re feeling this way because you’re looking for instant feedback that doesn’t exist.
Networking is a lagging indicator. You aren't trying to close a deal on the phone, you're just trying to pass the vibe check so that you become a "known quantity."
The "click" you are looking for happens behind your back and probably months from now (like when the staffer walks into the bullpen and says "we have 1,000 resumes, tell me which 10 people you actually spoke to")
If you had a normal conversation and they liked you, your name goes on that list. That's it. That's the click.
If the conversations feel "nice" and normal, you are doing it right. Just make sure to send a quick life update every 2 months so they remember your name when that meeting actually happens.
I’ve had the same experience. A lot of coffee chats feel friendly but kinda… nothing after. From what I’ve seen, networking doesn’t really “click” in real time, it’s more like delayed payoff.
As a freshman, I’ve realized most convos aren’t supposed to turn into anything concrete right away. It’s more about learning paths, not sounding clueless on calls, and having people vaguely recognize your name later. The ambiguity seems baked into the process.
Doesn’t feel like you’re doing it wrong, just feels inefficient because the results show up way later (if at all).
Networking often feels ambiguous at first, but its impact becomes clearer over time as relationships deepen and opportunities arise. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights to help you understand when networking starts to "click" and how to make it more effective:
Networking is a Long-Term Play: Coffee chats and networking aren't about immediate results. As highlighted in WSO threads, the goal is to build meaningful, professional relationships, not just transactional connections. For example, one user shared that their coffee chats eventually led to a job offer because they stayed in touch, demonstrated genuine interest, and built rapport over time.
Transitioning to Meaningful Relationships: It's crucial to move beyond initial conversations. Follow up every 2-3 months with individuals who showed interest in you. Send emails, set up additional coffee chats, or even make phone calls. Consistency and persistence are key to transitioning short-term connections into long-term relationships.
Focus on Building Trust and Value: People are more likely to help you when they see you as a friend or mentee rather than someone just looking for a favor. As one WSO contributor noted, "No one likes to be pitched, but everyone wants to do business with their friends." Approach networking with the mindset of seeking advice and guidance, not just opportunities.
Ask the Right Questions: During coffee chats, ask thoughtful questions about their career, daily responsibilities, and industry trends. This not only shows genuine interest but also helps you learn and stand out. Poor preparation or lack of good questions can hurt your chances of making a lasting impression.
When It "Clicks": Networking often "clicks" when you start seeing tangible results, like referrals, mentorship offers, or job leads. However, this usually happens after consistent effort and follow-ups. For some, it might take months or even years, but the key is to stay patient and persistent.
If you're feeling stuck, consider tracking your progress (e.g., in an Excel sheet) and refining your approach. Evaluate whether you're reaching out to the right people, asking meaningful questions, and maintaining consistent follow-ups. Networking is a skill that improves with practice, so keep at it!
Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Ideas for improving your coffee chat conversion rate, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, What (some of) you are doing wrong, Socially rejected in banking? How to make friends?
I felt the exact same way last cycle, every call felt like a robotic script.
I think the connection/click usually happens when you stop sounding like a student and start sounding like you get the job. If you’re just asking about culture or work-life balance, you blur together with everyone else.
What worked for me was bringing up actual deal mechanics or specific workflow questions. Use tools like WSO or Cook'd AI to run through some deal simulations before your calls. it gave me way better/more specific questions to ask about the execution process.
Once I started asking about the actual work the tone of the calls changed completely. They treat you more like a junior analyst and less like a clueless candidate.
We have sheets that tracked each chat with a rating.
Anytime I’ve gotten an internship it’s been from networking. Multiple times, contrary to popular advice, I’ve had a lot of success being upfront and genuine about wanting to work for someone and they’ve appreciated my candidness. I got a very competitive internship internationally from that, they said they could use my enthusiasm and referred me directly.
Another time I tried the same strategy of being upfront on a coffee chat and he also appreciated it, and it took 10 months but I got a role there in the end.
I’ll add that these have been with people of higher rank, but I’ve found that they know your intentions and don’t care so much about the song and dance that you have to play with analysts and associates. Don’t go around asking juniors for referrals without careful planning!
In the end it’s essential for interviews for roles / clubs / etc. after that it’s up to you.
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