How To Become More Comfortable with Networking

How To Become More Comfortable with Networking

An aspect of any productive job search, is the ability of one to network. While networking can take on many forms, and frankly is very comfortable for some individuals, and not so comfortable for others, it is a process and tool that helps one throughout their career development. Why would one choose to network in the first place? Among the reasons is to avoid isolation, to learn what others may do and perhaps share that activity with them, to further one’s professional or personal growth or perhaps to help someone in need.

If one has not networked often, it can be an uncomfortable experience. However, anyone can develop as a networker. There are 3 broad categories I have found that helps improve one’s networking experiences and abilities. They are:

1.) Being educated on networking techniques. That education can come through such things as reading and learning from different books on how to network. One could join a “referral based” professional networking group which often have education courses and sessions on how to improve one’s networking skills. Start networking in small settings such as having a coffee with a new person one has met, or getting involved in a small group activity. This often is far more comfortable to introverted individuals who are easily overwhelmed when dozens of people are all in one room at one time meeting each other. Additionally, look at networking as an activity where you are looking to give of your services or talents, as opposed to receiving something from the people with whom you are connecting. (Often, starting in a “giving” mode leads to others wanting to give back to you in return).

2.) Choosing how you want to network. Repetition often helps the networking process. If you are fortunate enough to connect with a group of individuals with whom you enjoy being, look to meet with them on a regular basis. Not immediately, but over the course of time, one gets to know the different members of the group. Beyond the cause which may have brought you all together, you may learn you share additional interests in common. Having one to one conversation with members of the group outside of the actual formal networking group also helps. And, again, if the group has an educational component that also helps. Look to keep a calendar and make networking activities a regular part of that calendar. Additionally, even in a group where there are the same members each week, look to concentrate on meeting and connecting with one or two different people each time you meet.

3.) Look at networking being a give and receive activity. Listen intently to what is happening in the life of others. As your network grows, when hearing common themes, look to connect people that may not know each other, but can be of assistance to each other. Additionally, look to become more involved in your networking groups in some sort of leadership or participatory role. This way you learn then inner workings of the networking group, and others get to know you through the service you are providing.

Above all remember networking relationships help provide each other support. They are relationships that are built to last. They are relationships that can provide us resources and information. And, again, most of all think Give and Receive than Give to Receive.