In the United States, networking is a normal and expected part of career growth. Many jobs are never advertised publicly. Instead, people hear about opportunities through colleagues, professional events, LinkedIn, and personal recommendations.
For international professionals and ESL learners, understanding how American networking culture works can help you feel more confident, build real relationships, and move forward in your career.
What “Networking” Really Means in the U.S.
In American business culture, networking does not mean asking strangers for a job. It usually means:
- staying in touch with classmates, colleagues, and former coworkers
- having short “coffee chats” to exchange information and advice
- introducing people who might help each other
- sharing useful resources or ideas (articles, events, job leads)
- being visible on LinkedIn and in professional groups
Over time, these small actions build trust and make it more likely that someone will think of you when they hear about a new opportunity.
How Americans Talk About Their Careers
In many U.S. workplaces, it is normal to talk about your achievements in a clear and confident way. This is not considered bragging if you:
- focus on facts and results (“I led a project that increased sales by 15%”)
- give credit to your team (“Our team delivered the project two weeks early”)
- connect your skills to how you can help others (“I specialize in X and can help with Y”)
Many international professionals stay quiet, hoping their work will “speak for itself.” In the U.S., managers and colleagues often expect you to speak up about your goals and progress.
A Simple Networking Plan for International Professionals
Start small and stay consistent:
- Update LinkedIn with a clear headline and short summary.
- Reconnect monthly with 2–3 people from your past.
- Schedule one “coffee chat” every few weeks.
- Join 1–2 professional groups or associations.
- Share something helpful (article, tool, event) monthly.
- Follow up after meetings with a short thank-you note.
Useful English for Networking in the U.S.
1. Requesting a Short Networking Call
Subject: Quick chat about [field / company]?
Dear [Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [your role] at [company / university]. I saw your profile and am very interested in your work in [area].
If you have time, I would appreciate a 20–30 minute call to learn about your career path and any advice you might have.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
2. Following Up After a Meeting or Event
Hi [Name],
It was great meeting you at [event]. I enjoyed our conversation about [topic].
Thank you for sharing your insights — they were very helpful. I hope we can stay in touch.
Best,
[Your Name]
3. Sharing That You’re Open to New Roles
Hi [Name],
I hope you are well. I wanted to share that I am exploring new opportunities in [field]. I have experience in [skills], and I’m especially interested in roles involving [area].
If you hear of anything, I would appreciate it if you could keep me in mind.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Sociologist Mark Granovetter discovered that many people find jobs through their “weak ties”—acquaintances, not close friends. These connections often provide new information and career opportunities.
Read the study
Cultural researcher Geert Hofstede describes U.S. culture as highly individualistic. Employees are expected to take initiative, speak up, and actively shape their careers—including networking.
Learn more
Want to improve your English for networking? Visit our Business English Hub.