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Being Featured on Driving Growth 

Tenfold HR Solutions is proud to share that Melanie Whittingham, Manager of Business Development, was recently featured on Driving Growth: The Go To Market Podcast in the episode Mastering the Art of Networking. 

Her message is clear. Networking is not about being transactional or simply collecting business cards. It is about building meaningful connections, showing up with intention, and investing in relationships over time. 

What listeners will hear in this episode 

This conversation feels less like a general discussion on networking and more like a practical masterclass on how to network with purpose. 

Melanie speaks about being intentional with your time, choosing the right spaces, preparing yourself well, and following up after events so conversations have the chance to turn into lasting professional relationships. 

Key takeaways from the episode

1. Do your research and choose the right rooms

Strong networking starts before the event begins. Melanie talks about being thoughtful about where you spend your time by researching the right events, communities, and organizations. That can mean exploring Eventbrite, LinkedIn, association pages, Chamber events, and other business communities that align with your goals. 

2. Go back to the same rooms and keep exploring new ones

Networking becomes more effective when people see you more than once. Showing up consistently builds familiarity, and familiarity builds trust. At the same time, growth also comes from stretching yourself and exploring new spaces where fresh opportunities and connections can happen. 

3. Prepare yourself before you walk in

A short introduction of who you are and what you do can go a long way. Having a business card, a helpful resource, or even your LinkedIn QR code ready can make introductions feel easier and more natural. Going with someone you know, or asking for introductions in the room, can also help create momentum. 

4. Be intentional, not transactional

One of the strongest themes from the episode is that networking should be intentional, but not transactional. You can be purposeful about where you go while still focusing on genuine human connection. That mindset which describes networking as community building and highlights the importance of turning conversations into relationships. 

5. Push yourself and build the skill

Networking is a skill, and like any skill, it gets stronger with practice. A memorable part of Melanie’s message is the reminder to talk to strangers in professional settings, even when it feels uncomfortable. Growth often starts by being willing to step into the conversation. 

6. Make timefor the work after the event 

One of the most practical lessons in the episode is that networking does not end when the event is over. Booking time afterward for follow up matters. That might mean connecting on LinkedIn, booking a coffee, or scheduling a virtual meeting. Follow up is a major factor in turning conversations into lasting relationships. 

Common Mistakes People Make When Networking 

A common mistake is approaching networking too narrowly. People can become so focused on finding the exact right prospect or client that they miss the broader value of genuine conversations and the connections. Another mistake is expecting networking to work without doing the follow up. 

What makes this conversation valuable is that it reframes networking as something more meaningful and more manageable. It is all about showing up with intention, being prepared, staying curious, and understanding the long-term value of community and connection. 

Why This Matters 

Melanie’s episode is a strong reminder that the best networking is rooted in authenticity, consistency, and follow through. When you choose the right rooms, prepare well, keep showing up, and make time to nurture connections afterward, networking becomes a meaningful part of personal growth, professional development, and business growth success. 

Want to hear the full conversation? Listen to Melanie Whittingham on Driving Growth: The Go To Market Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. 

Listen Here 

To learn more about Tenfold HR visit their website here.

To listen to more episodes from Roadmap Agency check out there YouTube channel here.