The thought of networking strikes fear into many a heart. Why would you go up to a complete stranger and speak to them?! What if they don't want to speak to you? What if they think you are dumb? These are some of the thoughts that could be going through your head. Now, before I go on, please let me put in a disclaimer here:
I am an extreme extrovert and I love networking and speaking to random people. I do not pretend that I hate it or that it scares me.
Now that that's out of the way let me highlight why networking is important:
A solid network could mean that you are recommended for an upcoming opportunity.
Someone in your network could introduce you to someone in THEIR network to learn something new or for a job opportunity
Your next mentor/mentee could come from within your own network
Your network can help you with advice or to work through something technical
You could possibly change someone's life with advice that YOU give
Networking doesn't mean that you have to become friends with someone, it simply means you interact with the person on a professional basis. They know of you, and you know of them. If this evolves then its up to both parties to set boundaries. You might find that you actually do become good friends with certain people in your network and that's okay too.
So how do you do it? If networking induces anxiety, try this:
Sign up for a webinar (free or paid), this now ensures that you will attend the webinar with people that have a common interest. Attend the webinar, and if you are brave enough, ask a question (its okay to have your camera off). Alternatively take note of who asks questions during the session and what type of questions/comments they make. After the webinar, connect with the speaker on LinkedIn and introduce yourself. You can even thank them for a good talk. Also connect with the people that made an impression on you with their questions. That's it. Now it's up to you if you wanna carry on with a conversation. But the connection has been made, and that's what's important.
This is literally just 1 way of networking and there are many many more but just start with one for now. If that's even too much, you can practice by connecting with me on LinkedIn and just saying hello. You can use this link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-gamba-48840578/
I hope this has been informative. If you want to know more about coaching with me or if you just want to chat, you can book a free 45 minute career clarification session with me here:
Until next time, stay safe!
