6 Ways to Network When You Have “Nothing” to Offer (+ Examples)

Let’s get one thing straight. Everyone has something to offer.

Whether you’re unemployed or a recent graduate — you have a skill that someone out there needs.

When it comes to networking, you have to think long-term.

You might feel like you have nothing to offer today. But you never know where you’ll be in 5 or 10 years from now.

If you’re wondering how to network when you have “nothing” to offer, keep reading.

When you’re networking from scratch, you’ll need to get creative.

Here are 6 ways to network when you think you have “nothing” to offer.

How to Network When You Have Nothing to Offer

1. Offer to connect people in your network 

You likely know a lot of people with different talents and needs. 

When meeting new people, offer to introduce them to someone in your network that could use their talent or services. 

This right here will make you irresistible.

Nothing screams support louder than someone willing to introduce you to your next opportunity. 

Small gestures like these make you stand out while networking.

How It’s Done:

“Let me know if I can make any introductions for you. I’d be happy to.”

2. Offer an open ear

You may think people in high positions have it all figured out. 

But that is far from the truth.

Everyone is dealing with something. Many are dealing with it alone.

When you stop thinking about networking as transactional. 

And start thinking about it as simply being a good human. 

You’ll get better at networking.

Offering to listen to others is an easy way to add value. 

When you listen to someone, they can tell that you care about what they’re saying. They’ll be more comfortable sharing with you and being open.

People are more likely to come to you when they feel heard. 

How It’s Done:

“If you ever need someone to talk to about (enter something relevant), I’d be happy to listen.”

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3. Offer to share

When you connect with someone working on projects, offer to share their work. Sharing their work takes very little from you and leaves a great impression.

This works online too. Let’s say you follow someone and notice they have an event coming up.

Share their event flyer with your network. You don’t need a big following to do this.

They’ll appreciate the shout-out and remember you.

How It’s Done:

“If you have any projects that you’re working on, I’d be happy to share with my network. Let me know how I can help.”

4. Offer your feedback

Don’t underestimate the power of your feedback to your network. 

Brands invest lots of resources to learn what people think about their products and services.

In our early NetWerk® days, feedback from our community was priceless.

It helped us pivot and improve our brand and products. 

Sites like Quora are popular for people with questions. Why?

Because everyone needs a second opinion every now and then.

So why not offer yours?

Think of ways to add value to your network by offering your feedback.

How It’s Done:

“If you ever need feedback on a project you’re working on, I’d be happy to help.”

5. Offer to Volunteer

Volunteering to help others is an easy way to get noticed. 

But most importantly, it’ll give you a nice feeling inside knowing that you did something good for the world.

If there’s someone you want to add to your network, find out what causes they care about. And volunteer to support them. 

Volunteering also works if you’re looking for a job. People who volunteer, are 27% more likely to land a job than people who don’t volunteer. 

Many companies have programs supporting social good and charitable causes. This is called corporate social responsibility. 

Volunteering at events hosted by companies you want to work for is a great way to get your foot in the door. 

How It’s Done:

“I noticed that you volunteer for (enter cause).” I’ve always been interested in (enter cause) given my background in (enter how you connect with the cause). Is there anything I can do to help?”

6. Offer to show up 

Showing up for people is one of the greatest forms of support. 

Be intentional about being there for the people you want to build a relationship with.

Now it’s easier than ever to show up for people with many events happening virtually. 

If you still think you have nothing to offer when networking. Offer your presence. 

If someone you know is hosting an event, offer to show up. And invite your friends to come with you.

How It’s Done:

“Do you have any events coming up that I can go to? I’m happy to come through and show support.”

Getting Started

Hopefully, you’re convinced that you have more to offer than you think. Never underestimate how you can support people by just being you.

In our Master Networking course, we coach you step-by-step on how to network with confidence, build a brand story, and create an elevator pitch. 

You’ll learn simple yet powerful strategies to transform your career through networking.

Learn more at NetWerk® University!!

Over To You

Which of these will you offer your network?

Head over to our comments section on social @netwerkmovement and let us know. 

Share this with someone who needs it!

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