Let’s Rethink Networking

Networking. How do you feel when you read that?

For many, you shivered a little. You pictured yourself having surface level conversations or hiding from that person who doesn’t stop talking. You’re not having fun and you’re feeling like it’s a colossal waste of time, right?

If you’ve convinced yourself that networking is not for you, I’m here to tell you that you’re wrong. Here’s why: being a good networker has nothing to do with knowing how to fluff your way through superficial conversations. True networking is about connecting with people and cultivating relationships that provide reciprocal value. If you’re not having those kinds of results from your networking, I’m going to share four strategies that can get you started. 

But before I share these strategies, let’s get this clear: networking is one of the biggest determining factors to success. You need it. Just look at the women on the Rising Tide podcast. Every single guest has credited the relationships they’ve cultivated as a source of fuel to their success. I’ll repeat: you need networking. 

So, I challenge you to rethink what networking is and to use these four strategies to be a better networker:

Be intentional. Before you attend a conference, event, virtual meetup, webinar, etc. ask yourself, “What is my goal?” Are you seeking someone specific or information? Perhaps both? Something I do at in-person events or webinars is when I really resonate with a speaker or panelist I make a point to reach out to them, share what I connected with, and ask for their time. 

Ask people you respect for help. A reason to network is you might be looking for a job, maybe a mentor, or someone who has experience you want to learn from. Start with the people you already know and respect to help make a warm intro or make a suggestion on who you might want to meet. Either way it makes that first contact much easier. Game changer!

Leverage existing networks. Find organizations or groups that align with your objectives and values and see what events they host. These organizations do the work of creating a network of professionals based on specific topics so you can focus on finding people you connect with best. 

Be discoverable. This one is a curveball but a great way to network is to make it easy for people to find you. A great option is to create or update your LinkedIn profile to showcase what you're passionate about, what you are interested in speaking with others about, and let people know you are open to connecting. Check out Rising Tide podcast guests Catie Ivey and Sabina Pons LinkedIn profiles for great examples of how to do this well.

Remember, networking is connecting. With the right mindset, anyone can be a great networker.