Younger professionals don’t view networking the same way as older professionals do. The more seasoned you are, the more you “grew up” in an environment of going to events and exchanging business cards.
It’s not so much that Gen Y (Millennials) and Gen Z hate networking — it’s more about how traditional networking feels outdated or inauthentic to them. Consider the following points:
It feels fake or transactional: Many people from these generations value authenticity. The old-school idea of networking — handing out business cards at stiff events or making connections just to get ahead — can feel manipulative or hollow. They prefer genuine relationships over “what can you do for me?” vibes.
They already network; they just do it differently: Networking for Gen Y and Gen Z often happens online — through platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or even TikTok. They build communities around shared interests and careers, but it’s less about forced small talk and more about organically connecting with like-minded people.
The hustle culture backlash: Millennials and Gen Z are pushing back against the idea that you need to constantly hustle or schmooze to succeed. Work-life balance and mental health are bigger priorities, so the idea of attending awkward networking events after hours feels like unnecessary stress.
Career paths are different: Traditional networking was built for linear career paths — climbing the corporate ladder. But these generations are more likely to pursue freelancing, gig work, job hopping, or entrepreneurship. For them, networking looks more like building a personal brand or joining online communities than cozying up to a higher-up at a conference.
Knowledge over connections: They value skills and knowledge more than who you know. If they can learn a skill online or get noticed by posting content that showcases their expertise, that feels more rewarding and empowering than relying on a “who’s who” to pull them up.
But the bottom line is that they still do network; it’s just evolving (and they’re likely to be repelled by the word “networking” so keep that in mind when you ask your younger professionals to go to a networking event!).
“The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity.”
– Keith Ferrazzi
Header image by Vlada Karpovich/Pexels.
