New data names manufacturing the leading industry for networking averaging 110.2 connections per business. Manufacturing’s strong networking presence aims to develop strong supplier relationships, garner efficient logistics, and build B2B partnerships – making networking essential for growth.

With networking picking up pace – which industries are the best at it? And how can both employees and businesses maximise their networking potential?

To find out, Tapt  analysed a sample of over 400,000 networking connections — instances where professionals exchanged details using our platform — from a total of 3.7 million interactions. They looked at total networking volume and how actively individual businesses connect to reveal the industries leading the way, as well as the best times to network. They’ve also shared tips to help you network more effectively.

The industries where businesses network the most

Rank	Industry	# Connections per business
1	Manufacturing	110.2
2	Retail Trade	107.4
3	Finance and Insurance Services	92.2
4	Information Media and Telecommunications	90.4
5	Construction	87.1

Thinking of networking with a manufacturing business? The data reveals that manufacturing is the highest industry where businesses network the most – 110.2 connections per business. Its top ranking comes as no surprise, given that manufacturing relies heavily on strong supplier relationships, efficient logistics, and B2B partnerships – making networking essential for growth.

Retail follows closely behind at 107.4 connections per business. This could be due to the ongoing need for supplier negotiations, franchise partnerships, and customer engagement.

The industries where professionals network the most

Rank	Industry	# Connections per user
1	Information Media and Telecommunications	36.4
2	Manufacturing	34.5
3	Retail Trade	33.6
4	Education and Training	33.3
5	Accommodation and Food Services	32.6

For professionals looking to advance their careers and expand their industry presence, manufacturing offers 34.5 connections per user – second overall. This high activity may be from professionals networking to find opportunities, build partnerships, and stay competitive.

Information media and telecommunications tops the list at 36.4 connections, while retail falls just below manufacturing at 33.6.

For manufacturing professionals who want to get ahead and maximise their networking efforts, Elon Datt, Tapt’s Founder and CEO has offered his expert tips on how to successfully network: 

1. Maximise Midweek Engagement
   “Wednesday and Thursday are the most active days for networking. Professionals are settled into their workweek and ready to connect. Scheduling meetings or attending events during these days gives you the best chance of making meaningful connections”
2. Capitalise on Lunchtime Networking
   Nearly 30% of contact exchanges happen between 11 am and 2 pm. Use this prime window for networking, whether it’s over a business lunch, coffee chat, or a quick post-meeting follow-up. It’s a great time to engage without interrupting the flow of the workday.
3. Take Advantage of Global Connectivity

“With cities like Melbourne, Perth, and Singapore leading the charge in networking activity, digital tools like Tapt make it easier to build a global network, no matter where you are. Whether you’re travelling or working remotely, stay connected across borders and take advantage of international opportunities.”

4. Plan for Busy Networking Months
   “May and August are the peak months for networking activity, likely due to professionals wrapping up mid-year projects or ramping up efforts after summer. Focus your outreach during these busy months to ensure your networking efforts are met with high engagement.”
5. Embrace Weekend Networking in Key Industries
   “While weekends are quieter for most industries, sectors like Motor Vehicle Manufacturing and Hospitality excel during these off-hours. If you work in an industry that thrives on weekends, don’t neglect these days for targeted networking opportunities.”