five networking tips for people who hate networking
Networking is one of the most impactful exercises you can do to grow your career. It can lead to countless opportunities, including partnerships, increased sales, mentorship, idea sharing, and of course, job opportunities. It is estimated that 80% of jobs are filled through networking!
Unfortunately, a lot of people I talk to dread networking. But they don’t have to. Consider the five tips I’ve shared here to make the process something you might actually enjoy.
stop calling it networking
Networking brings to mind a room packed with suits, a bunch of handshaking, elevator pitches, and business cards. I’m already sweating just thinking about it.
I believe the most impactful type of networking is through meaningful one-on-one conversations. So instead of setting a goal this year to do more networking, try setting a goal to have X number of meaningful conversations with new contacts per month.
be flexible
Not everyone wants to spend time going to coffee. Don’t take it personally. Your can ask them if they would be willing to have a 20 minute phone or video call, or “virtual coffee”, especially if you don’t already have a personal connection with them (meaning, have met them before or have a mutual contact who has introduced you). That said, sending a $5 digital gift card for a coffee as a follow up to say thank you is a nice touch!
Side note - When I said not everyone wants to go to coffee, I wasn’t talking about myself. I will ALWAYS take you up on a cup of coffee.
make it about them, not you
People often hesitate to ask for conversations because they feel as though they’re asking for favors. Don’t ask for favors, ask for information or advice. Let them know you’re interested in the work they do, or the company they work(ed) for, and that you would love to ask them a few questions about their experience. You will start to notice how flattered people become when you express interest in them.
As you learn about your new contacts, find ways you might be able to help them. It could be by providing a unique perspective or by offering to introduce them to a contact of yours.
bring your curiosity with you
Get genuinely curious about the person you’re meeting with. What’s their story? What has surprised them about their career so far? What do they enjoy doing in their free time? Staying curious will help you find shared interests and make a stronger connection with the person you’re meeting with.
messaging examples
Here are some examples of initial messaging you can use for inspiration:
“Hi Deborah. I discovered your LinkedIn profile through some mutual connections, Katherine Campbell and Andy Graves, who I worked with at HCA. I see you managed to transition out of marketing and into product development. I’d love to hear more about your story. Would you be willing to spend 20 minutes on a call with me so I can hear about your experience and how you made that transition?”
“Hi Sam. I’m so glad Taylor introduced us last week! I’d love to spend some time with you and hear more about your career at Spotify. That industry has piqued my interest, and you’ve clearly been successful growing your career in it. Would you be willing to meet at Starbucks one morning in the next few weeks?”
alright, now how are we feeling about networking?
Ahem, excuse me, “conversations”, not networking. Keep me updated on your conversations and the impact they’re making in your career. I can’t wait to hear more!
