Networking may be scary, but building your professional community isn’t!
Do you love networking? That’s great! If not, that’s okay! In many cases, networking has a bad reputation and some see it as uncomfortable, intimidating, or even scary. The concept of networking is often misunderstood or too narrowly defined, which can lead to a lack of trust of comfort with the process. When that happens, networking isn’t something you see value in or want to do. However, networking is important and is a part of our everyday lives (whether you realize it or not). The good news is there are ways to approach and engage in networking that can make it beneficial, effective, and even fun for you!
First of all, it may help to call it by a different name. For many, the term “networking” has come to mean going a large event, approaching people you don’t know, and having forced conversations. That is one way to network, but it’s not the only method out there! Think of networking as building a community. Networking is essentially connecting with people and sharing information. You probably do it every day in a number of capacities. When you do this in a way that’s focused on your work-related life and connect with people in related career fields that share your skills and interests, you are building your professional community.
Now let’s address those intimidating or uninspiring networking events. While they may be helpful in terms of connecting you with like-minded professionals, if the format doesn’t appeal to you, don’t spend your time there. Find places and events where you can connect with people that are more comfortable for you. For example, rather than attending a networking reception at a conference, focus on meeting people and sharing information during meals, sessions, or during breaks. Strike up conversations about what you’re learning or ask someone about what they are enjoying most about the event. Don’t forget there are many places to build your professional community outside of formal events. These include community functions, school events for your children, and leisure activities/clubs.
Another way to get more engaged with building your professional community is to set goals and reward yourself for success. When I go to conferences, I set a goal of connecting with at least five people that I can learn from and keep in touch with after the event. You can set a goal of meeting one new professional a week, or month. Be creative with your goals! Consider what you want to achieve and the steps that will help you get there. When you set your goal, make sure it’s achievable but also challenging so you will grow from the experience. If rewards help to motivate you, build one in! Rewards can help you celebrate your success and get you excited about moving forward even more. You can treat yourself to a fun day, a delicious meal, a new adventure or travel excursion, a splurge on something you’ve been wanting to buy, or even some beautiful flowers to brighten your day.
Sometimes it’s fun to do things with a buddy, so consider that option when networking! Take along a friend to an event where you’ll be able to meet new professionals or have that friend introduce you to people in their network. When attending live events, it can be reassuring to have someone there that you know to help get you warmed up for conversations and share observations. While it can be comfortable to speak to someone you know in these situations, realize that it’s important to meet different people, so be sure to make an effort to speak with new connections so you can build your network.
Lastly, when networking, try to lead with curiosity. What does this mean? You should be genuinely curious about what the other person is saying and listen attentively. Don’t just focus on what you want to say, or what you want to get out of the conversation. Networking is sharing information. In order to do that, you must listen carefully to what is being said and respond appropriately. Ask questions, try to be engaging with the other person, and learn from what is being said. You never know where a conversation may lead, or how the information you gain will help you move forward to accomplish your goals.
By considering everything that networking encompasses and determining how you can do it in a way that works for you, you’ll be able to effectively build your professional community. Try a few new things, evaluate the results, and adjustment as necessary. A refreshed outlook and new methods can boost your networking and help you find some great new connections and knowledge!
