Networking doesn’t always have to mean suits, business cards, and formal-feeling cocktail hours. Sometimes, the best connections happen when you’re barefoot on the beach, paddling at sunrise, or if you’re like me, trying not to throw your shoulder out on the pickleball court.
Summer vacation offers a golden opportunity to expand your circle in unexpected, meaningful ways. They key is doing it in a way that doesn’t feel like you’re bringing the buzzkill “work vibe” to the pool or the trail.
So how do you network without it making it feel like, well, work?
Here’s my advice.
1. Be present and open.
You don’t need to lead with “What do you do?” Instead, start with where you are. Whether you’re chatting with someone in the hot tub or sharing a trail with fellow hikers, lean into this moment. Ask about where they’re from, how they found this hidden gem, or the best local meal they’ve had. Let the conversation breathe—connection comes first, business can follow!
2. Read the room (or the beach).
Not everyone wants to talk shop while on vacation, and that’s, of course, okay. Be mindful of energy. If someone seems enthusiastic about your work, great. If not, it’s enough to enjoy a good conversation and move on. You never know when or how that interaction might resurface. Don’t push.
3. Have a soft “elevator pitch.”
When the inevitable “So, what do you do?” comes up, be ready with a short, engaging answer that invites curiosity. Think of it like a teaser trailer, not a full resume readout. Short ‘n sweet.
4. Make it easy to stay in touch.
If you click with someone, exchange contact info right away—AirDrop a contact card, follow each other on LinkedIn or Instagram, or have a digital QR code business card (it’s 2025, people!). Then jot a note in your phone about what you talked about to jog your memory later.
5. Follow up when you’re home.
Send a quick message referencing your shared experience. “So great talking to you after our hike in Aspen! Let’s stay in touch.” That’s all it takes to turn a friendly vacation chat into a lasting connection.
Summer is a mindset—and with the right approach, your next getaway might just be your best networking opportunity yet.
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