Yes, a warm intro is the key to getting ahead in your career. But most people hate networking. What to do? Connect with people authentically, and don’t call it “networking.” Here are 5 easy things to do:

1. Read NYT, WSJ, LinkedIn, and congratulate people on promotions or moves. Notice if their companies are doing well, or commiserate with them if something is not going well. Mention a memory about them that the news sparked. I can’t imagine your old friends reacting negatively to a compassionate reach out. (And if they do react negatively, they are the weirdos, not you.)
2. Forward/post helpful materials. For example, when I came across a great AI resource by Stanford, I shared the info on LinkedIn because I know a lot of lawyers are interested in that space. (I also included a hat tip to the original poster.) Another easy thing to do is refer job opportunities to friends (especially helpful in this market!).
3. Create original content that people need in your area of expertise. It can be legal, but it doesn’t have to be. It could even be a list of top food recommendations (e.g., if you live in SF, went to school in New Orleans, or just visited Tokyo and get asked where to go).
4. Help a firm or organization host a round table or talk on a timely subject.
5. If you’ve asked someone for advice, tell them how things went and express gratitude. Studies have shown “even basic expressions of thanks in the workplace have remarkably powerful effects.” Do it authentically, and recognize people for their contributions. You’d be surprised how rarely people are rewarded for their good deeds.