In this episode, Jeni Smith, founder of NetKno and a leading voice in strategic networking, shares her journey from accidentally discovering networking during university to turning it into a 20-year career, business, and PhD research focus. Jeni explains how networking evolved from something that once terrified her into a lifelong passion centred around human connection, social capital, and helping people build more meaningful professional relationships. Drawing from years of experience attending, hosting, and studying networking events, Jeni breaks down why so many people struggle with networking and how fear of social rejection often holds people back. She explains the psychology behind confidence, self-identity, vulnerability, and trust, while sharing practical strategies for becoming more comfortable in social and professional environments. The conversation also explores introversion vs extroversion, body language, conversation skills, empathy, and how people can build stronger and more authentic relationships both online and offline. This episode also dives into social capital, leadership, and the power of diverse networks. Jeni shares how adding value to others, creating opportunities for people, and genuinely listening can transform both careers and businesses. She also discusses her PhD research at Durham University, where she studies the interactions between academia and industry, and explains how diverse networks lead to innovation, better problem-solving, and long-term success. Key Takeaways: Networking fear often comes from the human fear of social rejection and vulnerability.Powerful networkers focus on learning, listening, and adding value rather than impressing others.Strong self-awareness and self-identity improve confidence and interpersonal relationships.Introverts and extroverts network differently, and both can become excellent networkers.Diverse networks create access to new knowledge, perspectives, and opportunities.Small acts of value and reciprocity compound into strong long-term relationships.Body language, active listening, and authentic curiosity make people more approachable.Networking is less about collecting contacts and more about building genuine human connections. Jeni’s Socials:LinkedIn – Jeni SmithWebsite – https://www.netkno.co.uk/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jeni_smith_/ Host Socials: Instagram – Siddhant Podcast Instagram
