---
title: "The Playbook: How to Network Authentically (Without Feeling Awkward)"
description: Learn how to network authentically and build long-term professional relationships with these practical tips and strategies for job seekers.
image: https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hubfs/NSS_NetworkAuthentically%201522x799.png
---

[![Nashville Software School Logo](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hubfs/Jan2018/Images/NSS-logo-horizontal-small.jpg)](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/)

- [Programs](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs) 
    - [Software Development Jumpstart](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/software-development-jumpstart)
    - [Analytics Jumpstart](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/analytics-jumpstart)
    - [Data Engineering Jumpstart](https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-engineering-jumpstart)
    - [Full-Time Web Developer Bootcamp](https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/web-developer-full-time/)
    - [Part-Time Web Developer Bootcamp](https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/web-developer-part-time/)
    - [Full-Time Data Analytics Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-analytics-full-time)
    - [Part-Time Data Analytics Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-analytics-part-time)
    - [Date Engineering Bootcamp](https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-engineering)
    - [Statistics For Data Science](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/statistics-for-data-science)
    - [Data Science Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-science)
    - [Professional Development](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/professional-development)
- [Community](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community) 
    - [Shop NSS](https://shopnss.creator-spring.com/)
    - [Our Team](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/instructors/)
    - [Alumni](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/alumni/)
    - [Mentors](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/mentors/)
    - [Employers](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/employers/)
    - [Veterans' Information](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/veterans-info/)
    - [Podcast](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/podcast/)
    - [Join Our Team](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/join-our-team)
- [Support NSS](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com) 
    - [Donate](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/ways-to-give)
    - [Corporate Giving](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/building-a-better-community-through-corporate-giving)
    - [Become A Volunteer](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/become-a-volunteer)
    - [Community Impact Report](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community-impact-report-2025)
- [Calendar](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/calendar) 
    - [Upcoming Events](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/calendar/events)
    - [Upcoming Programs](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/calendar/upcoming-programs/)
- [Blog](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog)

# Blog

# The Playbook: How to Network Authentically (Without Feeling Awkward)

Aug 28, 2025

 •

[Mandy Arola](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/author/mandy-arola)

In our [last post](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2025/08/21/dont-just-apply-finding-your-first-tech-role-in-the-hidden-job-market), we covered why networking is so critical to your job search and where to find your community. Now we’ve reached the step that can feel the most intimidating: how do you actually start a conversation?

Many people worry that networking will feel transactional or awkward, especially when they're on the job hunt. The key is to shift your mindset. Your goal isn’t to get something, like a job lead, it’s to learn something and to start building genuine, long-term professional relationships. Networking is a long-term investment in your career. The connections you make today can lead to mentorship, collaboration, friendships, and yes, opportunities for your first, second, and third job in tech.

The following steps aren't just one-time tactics for your current job search; they are the fundamentals of building a strong, supportive network. Turning these tactics into habits will serve you your entire career and give you access to the “hidden job market.”

### Lead with Curiosity

When you meet someone, whether in person or online, your first goal is simply to have a real conversation. Instead of leading with your own goals, ask about the interesting problems they're solving, what they enjoy about their work, or a recent project they shared. Leading with genuine curiosity is the best way to start building a relationship.

**Resource:** For great, non-generic questions to ask, check out this list of conversation starters from TeamBuilding.com: [102 Best Networking Icebreaker Questions for Work](https://teambuilding.com/blog/networking-icebreaker-questions)

Here are a few of our favorites to break the ice:

- What is something that surprised you about this industry?
- What is your favorite kind of music to listen to while working?
- What is your favorite part of your job?
- What’s your favorite book or podcast?
- When you see your job or industry in movies, which inaccuracy bothers you the most?
- What is the thing that most excites you about your job or industry?
- What was the best interview you have ever been on?

**Tip:** When you talk to someone, specifically ask for their opinion or advice on a challenge you're facing (e.g., "I'm really eager to grow and add as much value as I can to a team. What are the skills or habits that you’ve seen separate a good junior developer from a great one?"). People are naturally inclined to help, and when someone gives you advice, they become invested in your success.

**Tip:** If you’re talking to someone who’s familiar with NSS, they’ll likely know you’re looking for a job just by telling them you're a recent graduate. The NSS community wants to help!

### Master the Informational Interview

An informational interview is really just a chance to ask for someone's story: how they got started, what they’ve learned, and what advice they have. When you reach out to an NSS alum or another professional on LinkedIn, be specific with your request and respectful of their time. A targeted request for a brief informational interview or conversation is much more likely to get a response than a vague "can I pick your brain?"

**For example:** "Hi \[Name\], I'm a recent NSS grad and was so impressed by your work at \[Company\] that you shared on LinkedIn. If you have 15 minutes in the coming weeks, I'd love to hear a bit more about your experience there."

**Resource:** Indeed has a great guide on how to prepare for and conduct a successful informational interview, including 30 questions you can ask. [Read it here](https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/questions-to-ask-during-an-informational-interview).

**Tip:** Make sure you arrive prepared for your informational interview. Prepare 3-5 thoughtful questions and dress your best. A great final question to ask is, “Is there anyone else you think I should connect with?” This shows you value their insight and can help you expand your network.

### Always Follow Up

A simple "thank you" note after a conversation at a networking event or an informational interview is a professional courtesy that shows you appreciate their time. To make it even more memorable, reference something specific you discussed. If you talked about a particular article or resource, share a link to it in your note. This shows you were listening, adds immediate value to the connection, and keeps the conversation going.

**Resource:** This article from *The Muse* provides templates and examples on how to write a follow up note that stands out. [5 Email Templates That Make Following Up With Anyone Way Less Awkward](https://www.themuse.com/advice/finally-5-email-templates-that-make-following-up-with-anyone-way-less-awkward)

**Tip:** Send your follow-up note within 24 hours while the conversation is still fresh. To stay organized, use a simple spreadsheet to keep track of who you met, when you followed up, and any key details from your conversation.

### Make Outreach A Regular Habit

Building a network is a numbers game to some extent. So it's important to set realistic expectations. You won't get a response to every message you send, and that's perfectly okay. People are busy and inboxes are crowded. Let some time pass and then try them again! The key is consistent, thoughtful outreach. 

Don’t limit yourself to just a few outreaches. The more people you reach out to, the more conversations you'll have, and the less you'll sweat the messages that go unanswered. Focus on making outreach a regular habit, and celebrate the connections you do make.

### Building Your Professional Community

Leading with curiosity, asking for someone's story, and following up thoughtfully are the foundational actions for building your professional community. This network isn't built from a single meetup or one great conversation; it's the result of making these small, authentic efforts a consistent habit. While this practice is essential for your current job search, its true value will grow over months and years, leading to mentorship, friendships, and opportunities you can't yet imagine.

 

Building this foundation takes effort, but you don't have to do it alone. And speaking of support, you've got a whole team in your corner. In our next post, we'll cover all the ways the NSS support system is here to help you succeed.

Topics: [Community](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/community), [Analytics + Data Science](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/analytics-data-science), [Web Development](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/web-development), [Software Engineering](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/software-engineering), [Data Engineering](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/data-engineering)

[![Share on Facebook](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/facebook-24x24.png)](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Flearn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F08%2F28%2Fthe-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dfacebook) [![Share on LinkedIn](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/linkedin-24x24.png)](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Flearn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F08%2F28%2Fthe-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dlinkedin) [![Share on Twitter](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/twitter-24x24.png)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Flearn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F08%2F28%2Fthe-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter&url=https%3A%2F%2Flearn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F08%2F28%2Fthe-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter&source=tweetbutton&text=The%20Playbook%3A%20How%20to%20Network%20Authentically%20%28Without%20Feeling%20Awkward%29) [![Share on Email](https://static.hubspot.com/final/img/common/icons/social/email-24x24.png)](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https%3A%2F%2Flearn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F08%2F28%2Fthe-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Demail%20&body=Check%20out%20https%3A%2F%2Flearn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com%2Fblog%2F2025%2F08%2F28%2Fthe-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Demail)

### Upcoming Programs

Explore our upcoming programs to begin your journey towards a career in tech! Classes begin year-round.

[![EXPLORE](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4020755/e0f6232d-25e4-456d-a386-a0cf09a776dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4020755/e0f6232d-25e4-456d-a386-a0cf09a776dd)

### Want to know more?

### Support NSS

[![Donate Now](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4020755/6faecbd3-f6a1-4a5b-9256-fa436de1e5ef.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4020755/6faecbd3-f6a1-4a5b-9256-fa436de1e5ef)

### Post by Topic

- [Student Stories (369)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/student-stories)
- [Web Development (279)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/web-development)
- [Hiring? (233)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/hiring)
- [Analytics + Data Science (210)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/analytics-data-science)
- [Community (126)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/community)
- [News (115)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/news)
- [Learning (111)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/learning)
- [Alumni (78)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/alumni)
- [Software Engineering (61)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/software-engineering)
- [Technology Insights (39)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/technology-insights)
- [10 Years | 2000 Journeys (27)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/10-years-2000-journeys)
- [Get Involved (24)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/get-involved)
- [Meetups & Community Events (22)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/meetups-community-events)
- [UI/UX (22)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/ui-ux)
- [Data Engineering (17)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/data-engineering)
- [Mind The Gap (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/tag/mind-the-gap)

All

### Blog Archives

- [September 2026 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/09)
- [August 2026 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/08)
- [July 2026 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/07)
- [June 2026 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/06)
- [May 2026 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/05)
- [April 2026 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/04)
- [March 2026 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/03)
- [February 2026 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/02)
- [January 2026 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2026/01)
- [December 2025 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/12)
- [November 2025 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/11)
- [October 2025 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/10)
- [September 2025 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/09)
- [August 2025 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/08)
- [July 2025 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/07)
- [June 2025 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/06)
- [May 2025 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/05)
- [April 2025 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/04)
- [March 2025 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/03)
- [February 2025 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/02)
- [January 2025 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2025/01)
- [December 2024 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/12)
- [November 2024 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/11)
- [October 2024 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/10)
- [September 2024 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/09)
- [August 2024 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/08)
- [July 2024 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/07)
- [June 2024 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/06)
- [May 2024 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/05)
- [April 2024 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/04)
- [March 2024 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/03)
- [February 2024 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/02)
- [January 2024 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2024/01)
- [December 2023 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/12)
- [November 2023 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/11)
- [October 2023 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/10)
- [September 2023 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/09)
- [August 2023 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/08)
- [July 2023 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/07)
- [June 2023 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/06)
- [May 2023 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/05)
- [April 2023 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/04)
- [March 2023 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/03)
- [February 2023 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/02)
- [January 2023 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2023/01)
- [December 2022 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/12)
- [November 2022 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/11)
- [October 2022 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/10)
- [September 2022 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/09)
- [August 2022 (10)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/08)
- [July 2022 (10)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/07)
- [June 2022 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/06)
- [May 2022 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/05)
- [April 2022 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/04)
- [March 2022 (12)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/03)
- [February 2022 (12)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/02)
- [January 2022 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2022/01)
- [December 2021 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/12)
- [November 2021 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/11)
- [October 2021 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/10)
- [September 2021 (15)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/09)
- [August 2021 (19)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/08)
- [July 2021 (12)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/07)
- [June 2021 (16)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/06)
- [May 2021 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/05)
- [April 2021 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/04)
- [March 2021 (10)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/03)
- [February 2021 (17)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/02)
- [January 2021 (10)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2021/01)
- [December 2020 (13)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/12)
- [November 2020 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/11)
- [October 2020 (11)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/10)
- [September 2020 (13)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/09)
- [August 2020 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/08)
- [July 2020 (10)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/07)
- [June 2020 (12)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/06)
- [May 2020 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/05)
- [April 2020 (12)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/04)
- [March 2020 (11)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/03)
- [February 2020 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/02)
- [January 2020 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2020/01)
- [December 2019 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/12)
- [November 2019 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/11)
- [October 2019 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/10)
- [September 2019 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/09)
- [August 2019 (10)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/08)
- [July 2019 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/07)
- [June 2019 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/06)
- [May 2019 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/05)
- [April 2019 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/04)
- [March 2019 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/03)
- [February 2019 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/02)
- [January 2019 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2019/01)
- [December 2018 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/12)
- [November 2018 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/11)
- [October 2018 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/10)
- [September 2018 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/09)
- [August 2018 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/08)
- [July 2018 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/07)
- [June 2018 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/06)
- [May 2018 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/05)
- [April 2018 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/04)
- [March 2018 (6)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/03)
- [February 2018 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/02)
- [January 2018 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2018/01)
- [December 2017 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/12)
- [November 2017 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/11)
- [October 2017 (11)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/10)
- [September 2017 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/09)
- [August 2017 (12)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/08)
- [July 2017 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/07)
- [June 2017 (9)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/06)
- [May 2017 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/05)
- [April 2017 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/04)
- [March 2017 (8)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/03)
- [February 2017 (7)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/02)
- [January 2017 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2017/01)
- [December 2016 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/12)
- [September 2016 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/09)
- [August 2016 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/08)
- [July 2016 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/07)
- [June 2016 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/06)
- [May 2016 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/05)
- [April 2016 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/04)
- [March 2016 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/03)
- [February 2016 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/02)
- [January 2016 (5)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2016/01)
- [December 2015 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2015/12)
- [June 2015 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2015/06)
- [January 2015 (4)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2015/01)
- [December 2014 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2014/12)
- [February 2014 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2014/02)
- [January 2014 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2014/01)
- [October 2013 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2013/10)
- [June 2013 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2013/06)
- [May 2013 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2013/05)
- [April 2013 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2013/04)
- [November 2012 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2012/11)
- [October 2012 (2)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2012/10)
- [July 2012 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2012/07)
- [June 2012 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2012/06)
- [May 2012 (3)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2012/05)
- [January 2012 (1)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/archive/2012/01)

All

### Recent Posts

Nashville Software School is authorized by the [Tennessee Higher Education Commission](https://www.tn.gov/thec/). This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility.

- [NSS](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/)
- [About](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/about)
- [Press](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/press)
- [Contact](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/contact)
- [Virtual Tour](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/virtual-tour)
- [FAQ](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/faq)
- [Blog](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog)
- [Policies & Regulations](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/policies-and-regulations)

- [Programs](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs)
- [Software Development Jumpstart](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/software-development-jumpstart)
- [Analytics Jumpstart](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/analytics-jumpstart)
- [Data Engineering Jumpstart](https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-engineering-jumpstart)
- [Full-Time Web Developer Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/full-time-bootcamps)
- [Part-Time Web Developer Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/part-time)
- [Full-Time Data Analytics Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-analytics-full-time)
- [Part-Time Data Analytics Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-analytics-part-time)
- [Data Engineering Bootcamp](https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-engineering)
- [Statistics For Data Science](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/statistics-for-data-science)
- [Data Science Bootcamp](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/data-science)
- [Professional Development](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/programs/professional-development)

- [Community](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community)
- [Donate](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com)
- [Shop NSS](https://shopnss.creator-spring.com/)
- [Our Team](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/instructors/)
- [Alumni](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/alumni/)
- [Mentors](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/mentors/)
- [Employers](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/employers/)
- [Veterans' Information](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/veterans-info/)
- [Podcast](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community/podcast/)
- [Join Our Team](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/join-our-team)

- [Support NSS](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com)
- [Donate](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/ways-to-give)
- [Corporate Giving](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/building-a-better-community-through-corporate-giving)
- [Become a Volunteer](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/become-a-volunteer)
- [Community Impact Report](https://support.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/community-impact-report-2025)
- [Upcoming Events](http://nashvillesoftwareschool.com/calendar)

 

[![Leaders-in-Diversity-2023](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Leaders-in-Diversity-2023.png?width=120&height=60&name=Leaders-in-Diversity-2023.png)](https://bizj.us/1qj9h1)[![Best In Business 2020 Winner](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hs-fs/hubfs/BIBA-2020-logo-Winner.jpg?width=120&name=BIBA-2020-logo-Winner.jpg)](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2020/03/10/nss-awarded-best-in-business)![Nashville Scene - Ditch Your Crappy Job 2016](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Nashville-Scene-Award.jpg?width=120&name=Nashville-Scene-Award.jpg)

 

[![NACC Proud Member](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hs-fs/hubfs/NACCProudMember.png?width=120&name=NACCProudMember.png)](https://www.nashvillechamber.com/)

[![NTC Member](https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ntc-member.png?width=250&name=ntc-member.png)](https://technologycouncil.com/)

 

 

<https://www.linkedin.com/school/nashville-software-school/> <https://www.facebook.com/nashvillesoftwareschool.com> <https://www.instagram.com/nashvillesoftwareschool> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCKj04Fy5V4zAjWSIqdqScw> <https://www.x.com/nashsoftware> <https://soundcloud.com/nashville-software-school/sets/stories-from-the-hackery-1?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing>

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Mandy Arola",
    "url" : "https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/author/mandy-arola"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2025-08-28T14:23:34.554Z",
  "datePublished" : "2025-08-28T14:23:34.000Z",
  "headline" : "The Playbook: How to Network Authentically (Without Feeling Awkward)",
  "image" : [ "https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hubfs/NSS_NetworkAuthentically%201522x799.png" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/blog/2025/08/28/the-playbook-how-to-network-authentically-without-feeling-awkward",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://learn.nashvillesoftwareschool.com/hubfs/NSS-logo-horizontal-large.jpg"
    },
    "name" : "Nashville Software School"
  }
}
```