Networking Without the Awkwardness: How to Build Meaningful NDIS Connections
Let’s be real, the word networking can make some of us want to run and hide behind a clipboard.
We picture forced smiles, shallow small talk, and awkward business card exchanges that never go anywhere. But here’s the thing: in the NDIS world, connection isn’t optional, it’s essential.
Because whether you’re a sole trader, support coordinator, provider, or business owner, relationships are what drive referrals, trust, collaboration and long term growth.
And the good news? Networking doesn’t have to feel fake, pushy, or transactional.
In fact, when done right, it feels a lot like community.
So in this blog, I want to walk you through how to network in a way that feels natural, aligned and human, while still being strategic for your NDIS business.
Whether you're attending one of our Coffee Connect Collaborate catch-ups or planning to join the room at NDIS Business Connect in Sydney or Brisbane, this guide will help you walk in feeling confident and walk out feeling connected.
Let’s start here. The NDIS sector is unique.
This isn’t corporate sales. This is people-centred work. And trust is everything.
That means:
Referrals are built on relationships, not ads
Providers thrive through word of mouth, not cold outreach
Opportunities often come from being top of mind, not top of Google
So if you’re not consistently building relationships, you’re missing out on:
High quality referrals from people who know and trust you
Strategic collaborations with providers who share your values
New clients who feel safe with someone who was personally recommended
Networking isn’t about talking to everyone. It’s about showing up as yourself so the right people can find you.
❌ Mistake 1: Leading with “What Do You Do?”
That question often puts people on the spot or into a rehearsed pitch.
✅ Instead, ask:
“What brought you to this event?”
“How’s your week going in business?”
“What kind of work lights you up the most right now?”
These questions invite real conversation and help people relax.
❌ Mistake 2: Focusing on What You Need
It’s easy to feel like you have to “sell” yourself. But constantly talking about what you do can feel one sided.
✅ Instead: Be curious.
Ask about the other person’s business. What are their challenges? What are they looking for? How can you help or connect them?
Be a giver, not just a getter and you’ll be remembered.
❌ Mistake 3: Trying to Meet Everyone
You don’t need to walk out with 30 business cards. You need 3 solid conversations that you can follow up on meaningfully.
✅ Instead: Go deep, not wide.
Find one or two people who feel aligned and really connect. Listen. Relate. Offer value.
Here’s how to make it feel good (and work well).
Before you even walk into a room, know your message.
Not your elevator pitch, your purpose.
Ask yourself:
What do I want to be known for?
What makes my service different?
What kind of people do I want to work with?
When you’re clear on your values, you naturally attract like minded providers, clients and collaborators, without needing a pitch deck.
Not all networking is created equal. Look for events that are:
NDIS specific or disability sector focused
Curated for connection (like our Coffee Connect Collaborate mornings)
Facilitated by people who value inclusion, honesty, and collaboration over competition
👉 Our Coffee Connect events are intentionally designed to be non-intimidating. You sit with real people, over real coffee, and talk about what matters, no sales scripts required.
Networking isn’t about the chat at the table, it’s about the relationship you build afterwards.
After an event:
Send a voice message on LinkedIn
Share a resource that made you think of them
Invite them to grab coffee, collaborate, or co-host something together
Pro tip: Keep a “People to Follow Up With” list in your phone or CRM.
You don’t have to do business alone.
In fact, the most successful NDIS providers I know have a go-to group of people they refer to, work alongside, and support.
How to start yours:
Pick 3–5 providers in complementary spaces (e.g., an OT, support coordinator, SDA provider, etc.)
Meet monthly or quarterly
Share what’s working, what’s coming up, and who you can refer each other to
These relationships are GOLD. They’re built on shared trust and mutual growth and they often lead to consistent, values aligned referrals.
Let’s face it, even the best events can feel uncomfortable if you’re not sure how to “jump in.”
Here are some quick tips:
💬 Walk up to someone standing alone and say:
“Hi! Mind if I join you?” or “Have you been to one of these before?”
🎯 Use the event itself as a talking point:
“What did you think of that speaker?” or “I loved what they said about...”
🔁 Bring someone with you next time
Sometimes having a familiar face helps ease the nerves. (Better yet, bring someone new and introduce them around!)
If you’re ready to put this into action and meet other providers who are walking the same journey, here are 3 places to start:
☕ Coffee Connect Collaborate – Brisbane
A relaxed, welcoming event where the coffee is hot, the vibe is easy, and the conversations matter.
🗓 Friday 30th May
📍 Mary Mae’s, Brisbane
🎟 $15 (includes your drink + morning tea)
👉 Grab your seat here
So take the step. Start the conversation. Be the one who goes first.
We’re all better for it 💛
Vanessa
