When Is the Best Time to Start Building Your Network? The Answer Might Surprise You.

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”

That wisdom applies perfectly to networking. Too often, people wait until they need something — a job, funding, a strategic partner — before trying to build relationships. By then, you’re already playing catch-up.

Students & Early Career

In a 2024 survey, about half of Gen Z respondents said they secured a job through networking events. According to a 2024 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), early-career professionals who engaged in networking and experiential learning progressed faster and earned higher salaries.

NACE also notes that career fairs are one of the most effective ways for students to connect with professionals in their desired fields, giving them a jumpstart on building both in-person and digital networks.

The takeaway: networking early gives you access to mentors, internships, and insider opportunities before competition intensifies.

Mid & Senior Career

A 2024 feature from UC Berkeley Extension highlights how networking creates opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, promotions, and access to unadvertised jobs.

Berkeley’s career experts emphasize that maintaining strong professional relationships helps you stay informed on industry trends, sharpen your skills, and be top-of-mind when new opportunities, funding, or partnerships emerge.

Remember, Networking Isn’t Just LinkedIn

Don’t limit yourself to one platform. Diversify how and where you connect:

• LinkedIn → Still essential for visibility, industry updates, and professional connections. With 310 million monthly active users, out of 1.1 billion worldwide, it remains the dominant professional networking tool.

• Twitter/X, Threads, & forums → Join conversations, share ideas, and establish thought leadership.

• Slack/Discord/online communities → Enable deeper peer interactions in your specialty.

• In-person events → As Forbes notes, “online networking events often result in one-way communication rather than true connections… In-person events allow for more authentic exchanges that are meaningful and memorable.”

The Risk of Waiting

When you only reach out in crisis mode, your asks can feel transactional, shallow, or even desperate — and they’re more likely to be ignored.

In reality, many jobs are filled through referrals and internal networks. For independent contractors and small businesses, referrals usually come from word-of-mouth and direct recommendations. Building trust over time ensures your network is ready when you need it most.

The Bottom Line

Don’t postpone networking. The value of relationships compounds over time. Plant the seeds now — whether you’re a student, an established professional, or a leader — and you’ll reap returns when you need them most.

Ready to start? Join Bonsai’s waitlist and begin cultivating meaningful connections today.