Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards or attending events. In the AEC industry, it’s about building relationships that lead to partnerships, referrals, and trust over time. Whether you’re a natural connector or a reluctant mingler, networking is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and made more effective with intention.

This December, HUDDLE is all about networking—how to build confidence, deepen conversations, and walk away from interactions with more than just a handshake. We’ll also explore how AI can help you prepare and follow up with greater impact.

Why Networking Matters in AEC

Our industry is built on trust and reputation. Projects are won not only on qualifications but also on relationships.

Strategic networking helps you:

• Stay top of mind with clients and teaming partners
  
  
• Build visibility in the markets you serve
  
  
• Builds visibility with decision-makers
  
  
• Discover opportunities before they’re public
  
  
• Learn from peers, clients, and industry leaders
  
  
• Strengthen internal connections across departments or offices

Tips for Building Better Connections

Set Clear Intentions

Before attending any event or meeting, know your purpose. Are you reconnecting with someone? Meeting potential teaming partners? Learning about a client’s market? A clear goal keeps conversations focused.

Ask, Don’t Just Tell

Good networking is more about listening than pitching. Ask open-ended questions that invite stories and insights. Show genuine curiosity.

Find Common Ground

Shared experiences or interests create memorable connections. These don’t have to be work-related—family, hometowns, and hobbies count too.

Make the Follow-Up Easy

Don’t let the relationship end with the event. Send a quick email, connect on LinkedIn, or share an article they’d find relevant. A small gesture keeps you on their radar.

Be Patient

Networking pays off over time. Not every conversation leads to a project—but every interaction shapes your reputation.

How AI Can Help You Network Smarter

AI tools can help you take a more strategic and prepared approach to networking:

• Event Prep
  
  
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Use AI to research attendees, speakers, or panelists. Summarize their roles, companies, or recent projects to feel more confident walking in.
    
    
• Draft Follow-Up Messages
  
  
  • AI can help you craft professional and personalized follow-ups quickly—just input a few notes and let it build the framework.
    
    
• Conversation Starters
  
  
  • Not sure how to break the ice? AI can generate industry-relevant questions or talking points based on the event or audience.
    
    
• Organize Contact Notes
  
  
  • After an event, feed your notes into an AI tool to summarize who you met, what was discussed, and what follow-up is needed.
    
    
• Track Relationship Progress
  
  
  • Pair AI with your CRM to flag contacts you haven’t reached out to in a while or generate reminders to reconnect.

Used intentionally, AI helps turn casual contacts into long-term connections.

Join the December HUDDLE

Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward or opportunistic. It’s about building a community of professionals who support, refer, and collaborate with one another. Whether at a holiday party, industry event, or client lunch, every interaction is a chance to build trust and open new doors.

This month’s HUDDLE encourages your team to see networking as a long-term investment—and gives them the tools, confidence, and follow-through to make it count.