Braeden Coon
September 03, 2025
Career Guide ArticleWhether you’re a seasoned professional or a student just stepping into the industry, networking is more than a buzzword. It’s a bridge builder.
In agriculture, relationships drive everything from agribusiness partnerships to community development. Networking isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential. And it’s not limited to job hunting or handing out business cards. True networking is forming relationships that support mutual growth and open doors to unexpected opportunities.
Rethinking Networking
Networking has picked up a reputation as something transactional or self-promotional. — the fast-talking, elevator-pitch-spouting, business-card-exchanging kind of thing. But the truth is it isn’t about how many people you know. It’s about the quality of the relationships you build.
At its core, networking is about:
Connection: Meeting people with shared passions, aligned values or complementary skills.
Collaboration: Finding ways to work together, exchange knowledge or support each other’s goals.
Community: Building a sense of belonging in your industry or field.
In this light, networking becomes more than a task; it becomes an investment in your future, personal growth and impact.
Why It Matters
In the agriculture and food industries, careers are built on connection. University alumni networks, extension relationships, commodity boards, mentorship circles — these communities thrive because of the trust and familiarity built over time. However, none of these initiatives begin without that initial conversation.
Strong networks can help you:
Discover new job opportunities or career paths
Get advice from those with firsthand experience
Stay informed on industry trends and best practices
Find collaborators, co-founders or mentors
Build confidence and develop leadership skills
The relationships you cultivate now will shape your career for decades to come.
Breaking Through the Fear
Networking can feel awkward, especially when you’re new to the room. Walking into a crowd of strangers can be intimidating. However, it's reassuring to know that almost everyone feels that way at some point.
Here are a few ways to reduce the pressure and walk in with confidence:
Prepare ahead of time
Do some research on the event or people you might meet. Have a few questions ready, like “What brought you to this event?” or “What’s something exciting happening in your work right now?”
Breathe deeply
Nerves are normal. Take a few deep breaths before stepping into the room or approaching someone new.
Visualize success
Before the event, picture yourself having a great conversation. It may sound simple, but visualizing a win can ease anxiety and set a positive tone.
Lead with your strengths
If you're more comfortable listening than speaking, use that. Ask open-ended questions. People appreciate someone who genuinely takes an interest in what they have to say.
Most importantly, remember that networking is a skill, not a personality trait. Like any skill, it improves with practice.
Starting the Conversation
If you’ve ever stood in front of someone and drawn a blank, you’re not alone. Having a few conversation starters in your pocket can ease the tension and help spark meaningful discussions.
Here are a few that work in almost any setting:
“What are you currently working on?”
“What do you enjoy most about your job or studies?”
“How did you get into this field?”
“What’s something exciting happening in your industry?”
And just as important as knowing how to start a conversation is knowing how to exit one gracefully. If someone starts scanning the room, gives short responses or seems distracted, it may be time to move on. Try a polite exit like:
“It was great talking with you. I’m going to connect with a few more people before the event ends.”
“I’d love to stay in touch. Can we exchange contact info?”
These transitions demonstrate respect for both your time and theirs, maintaining a professional tone.
What Happens Next Matters Most
Networking doesn’t end when the event does. The follow-up is where the real connection is built. A simple message can turn a five-minute conversation into a long-term relationship.
Here’s how to keep the momentum going:
Connect on LinkedIn
When you send a request, include a note: “Hi [Name], it was great to meet you at [event or context]. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic] and would love to stay in touch.”
Keep track of contacts
After the event, jot down who you met, what you talked about and any next steps. A small detail remembered weeks later can leave a strong impression.
Send a follow-up email or message
Reference something specific from your conversation. It shows authenticity and interest in continuing the connection.
Whether you’re following up to ask for advice, share a resource or just say thanks, the effort matters.
Tips for Networking Like a Pro
Don’t cling to your crew: It’s tempting to stay with people you already know, but the point of networking is to expand your circle.
Quality over quantity: One great conversation is more valuable than 10 surface-level chats.
Be inclusive: If you’re standing in a group and notice someone nearby alone, invite them in. If you meet someone interesting, introduce them to others they might connect with.
Always be prepared: Have a way to exchange contact information, such as business cards, a LinkedIn QR code, or even your email address in your phone's notes app.
Making Networking Part of Your Routine
The best networkers don’t wait for big events to happen. They build relationships year-round. Here’s how to build networking into your life:
Be curious: Ask questions. Learn from people in different roles or sectors.
Give before you get: Offer help, advice or encouragement. People remember those who add value.
Stay engaged: Send a quick message when someone gets a new job, publishes something interesting or shares news. Small gestures add up.
Remember, every conversation has potential. You never know when a simple exchange might lead to a job offer, a collaboration, or a lifelong friendship.
One Connection Can Change Everything
Networking isn’t about being the most outgoing person in the room. It’s about being intentional, curious and open to connection. When you approach networking as an opportunity to learn, grow and support others, it stops feeling like a task — and starts becoming a habit worth keeping. Start networking with agfuture.org.
