networking is not a self-serve buffet where you pick what you want, when you want it, and that’s it.
one of the biggest mistakes people make in networking is acting with a self-serving mindset. only reaching out to your network when you need something doesn’t work, nor does offering help only if you expect something in return. this turns you into one of those annoying people that no one wants in their network.
but the question is: how to network without being completely annoying to others? and how do you also make the process less heavy on yourself? that’s the answer you’ll get today.
make the network when you don't need it
everything is more urgent and stressful when you are desperate. yet you insist on only reaching out and meeting new people when you desperately need their help.
that is not how this works at all; you need to be able to access the network you already built when you have a need.
so this is a warking: take all of the opportunities you have to make the righ contacts beforehand. and the ones you don’t have as well.
make opportunities for yourself, start conversations with interesting people, introduce yourself, ask for an introduction from someone else.
you won’t build a really good list of people by just existing, you’re not the last coca-cola drop in the desert. make yourself interesting enough so people want to have a connection with you.
which brings us to our next point.
networking is a two way street
don’t think people are here to serve you. the contacts in your network are real people with interest just like you. find out how you can be an asset for them too.
if you see something that may interest them – a video, an article, a job opening if they’re looking – send it. they’re more likely to remember you in a similar situation if you make yourself present and useful.
that’s why it’s important to keep in regular contact with people. create a routine to nurture those relationships over time, and remember that networking is a two-way street that requires effort and a genuine desire to make it work from both sides.
keep in touch (but not too much)
but we’re really emphasizing: DON’T BE A BURDEN. don’t send out of context random messages or act like a spam account sending 100 things a day. while it’s crucial to stay in touch, no one likes that. instead, try to cultivate these relationships naturally. interact on social media, occasionally share content that you think the other person will enjoy, and most importantly, be yourself.
by being genuine and consistent, you can build a strong, supportive network that really benefits everyone involved. who knows, you can even get a real friendship out of all of this.
online or offline?
well, in the epitome of globalization, i can’t in the right mind tell you to not explore the online world, especially when there are platforms made just for that like, of course, linkedin.
but even being an online agency, we at ARA are soooo for the offline connections. this topic will not answer ‘this or that’ but advocate for a better ‘this AND that’.
1. linkedin is not instagram or merely a job platform
this particular social media platform goes from in to out of style and back again – according to the public eye – once a month. but the power is undeniable.
the thing is, according to karen wickre, author of “taking the work out of networking”, many people don’t realize its potential and use it incorrectly, often seeking connections only when they need a job and are desperate (like i already told you not to do).
be intentional. since it’s reserved for professional connections, it’s 3x more important to be mindful of what you post and how you communicate. consider the quantity, quality, and relevance of your content before publishing anything.
and the added bonus is that linkedin allows you to connect with people you wouldn’t normally meet and make networking a part of your daily routine.
2. GO OUT! SEE THINGS! MEET PEOPLE! MAKE THE MOST OUT OF IT!
you can create your network online and YOU SHOULD. but life is so interesting to be lived just inside of your bedroom through a computer.
go to work events, panels, seminars. also go to parties, informal hangouts, don’t underestimate the power of meeting goo contacts out of work event too.
and our golden tip: take that online connection offline if possible. schedule a coffee, go to an event together, just do it.
and, please, plase, PLEASE, always try to remember you’re dealing with people. be kind.