The unspoken rules of networking in Nigeria

Everybody knows that networking in Nigeria is how the corporate world goes round. On all the blogs and in all the webinars and events, you’ll always get advice to network as much as possible, especially if you’re trying to build a career.

The thing is, since you won’t find as many opportunities on LinkedIn as you’d find at a tech event, networking is actually important. But you have to do it right. In this article, we’ll explain some unspoken rules about networking and making connections in Nigeria.

Why is networking important in the corporate world?

In Nigeria, who you know can matter almost as much as what you know. The right connection can open doors, provide mentorship, and fast-track your growth in ways that qualifications alone simply cannot. Essentially, networking gives you access to:

• New job opportunities
• Partnerships
• Insider knowledge about your industry
• A support system

In short, networking, even if you want to be a remote worker, can be the difference between a person with a well-paying job or connections and someone still struggling to find their way in a particular industry.

How to network in Nigeria: Unspoken rules you should know about.

Networking in Nigeria is about timing, trust, and knowing how to move in the right circles. If you do it well, you can build a network of people who see value in you and want to help you grow your career. Here are five unspoken rules to help you navigate networking the smart way.

1. Show up consistently

It’s not enough to attend one event and vanish. Being present at industry meetups, webinars, and community gatherings signals commitment and reliability. People remember faces, not just names. Plus, the more you go to these events, the higher your chances of making meaningful connections.

2. Focus on building genuine relationships

Focus on understanding people and their work instead of collecting their contact cards. This way, they’ll be more inclined to listen to you and hear what you have to say. So, ask questions, listen, and engage. The genuine relationships you’d build last longer and open doors more effectively than a list of acquaintances.

3. Offer value before asking for help

The last thing you want to do is ask for favors the moment you meet someone. Instead, you should start by sharing useful information, recommending resources, or connecting people in your network. When you give first, you build goodwill, and the thing about goodwill is that people remember those who help them.

4. Be thoughtful with your follow-ups

Think about it, even for the average person, it’s easy to meet dozens of people and forget who’s who. So, it’s important to send a quick note or message to reinforce the connection after meeting people.

Be sure to avoid generic lines like “nice meeting you.” It’ll look like you’re wasting their time. Instead, reference your conversation, offer something useful, or simply check in. Thoughtful follow-ups keep you on people’s radar without being pushy.

5. Respect cultural and social cues

Even while trying to talk to people or build connections, pay attention to body language and tone. The truth is that not every person is open to networking immediately, and some environments are more formal than others. Learning to read these subtle cues prevents missteps and ensures you approach people at the right time and in the right way.

Common mistakes Nigerians make while networking

If we’re being honest, networking in Nigeria can be tricky. In fact, even the professionals you’re trying to meet sometimes misrepresent themselves. But the good news is, you can easily avoid this. All you have to do is note the common mistakes people make while networking. Here are a few you should note:

1. Treating networking as transactional

One of the biggest errors is thinking networking is only about what you can get. Many Nigerians approach events and connections with a checklist mentality, trying to spot who can help them or who can give them a job. This mindset is obvious and off-putting.

Instead of thinking about what you can get from the jump, share some insights you know, introduce yourself, or offer assistance without immediately asking for something in return. Over time, people remember those who give first and will naturally reciprocate when opportunities arise

2. Only networking when you need something

Waiting until you’re desperate for a job or a favor is never a good idea. Networking actually works best when it’s ongoing and consistent. People notice and respond better to individuals who invest in relationships before asking for help.

If you only show up when you need something, you risk being forgotten or seen as opportunistic. Regular check-ins, sharing updates, celebrating others’ wins, or providing useful information keep your network warm. This way, when you do need support, it feels natural and mutually beneficial rather than forced.

3. Overlooking people who are within your proficiency range

Many people think networking only happens with big names, but your closest peers, teammates, or community members often have hidden influence. They know opportunities and can give honest feedback or refer you when you least expect it. 

So, be sure to engage with them, collaborate, and share knowledge. You never know; your work bestie could become the most valuable bridge to bigger opportunities. You can always start by attending team bonding events or mixers within your industry.