What do you do if your networking efforts as a mid-career professional are falling short?

To improve networking as a mid-career professional, refine your goals, identify target networks, diversify your approach, build genuine relationships, offer value, attend networking events, follow up consistently, be proactive, seek feedback, and remain persistent and patient. By refining your networking goals, diversifying your approach, building genuine relationships, offering value, participating in networking events, being proactive, seeking feedback, and staying patient, you can unlock new opportunities for career growth and advancement.

If you are struggling with networking, use mindfulness to consider your strategy. Are you actively engaging in dialogues with potential new connections, or approaching connections with what you can gain from it? Are you going to the right events and interacting with the right people? Consider asking those in your current network for feedback on your strategy as well.

Many professionals hit a snag when it comes to networking. It's all about perspective and a bit of strategy. Start by reflecting on your approach. Are you focusing solely on what you can gain, or are you genuinely interested in building connections and offering value in return? Sometimes a shift in mindset can make a world of difference. Secondly, diversify your networking tactics. It's not just about attending events or sending LinkedIn requests. Try reaching out to former colleagues, joining professional groups or forums related to your field, or even volunteering for causes you're passionate about. Authenticity and consistency are key.

If your "Networking efforts are falling short", immediately reassess Your Goals, Existing Clients, and the Clients You Wish to Attract. The artifice of Networking Events and Professional Groups may not appeal to you. Be Authentic, maintain your core values, and try a different approach. "Think Outside the Box".

Use mindfulness to adjust your networking strategy. Take time to pause and consider your goal. Do you need to refine the goal itself or the path to get there? Use mindful listenting to seek advice from close connections to open up more ideas and creativity.

People have an innate ability in sensing when someone is being disingenuous. "Hard Selling", domineering monologues, and arrogance are real turn-offs. Mindfulness allows your vulnerability and True Presence to come forward. People become receptive, and they gravitate towards authentic people like YOU.

The world is not a zero sum game. Yet we often (sometimes unconsciously) feel competitive with others, especially those in the same field and can feel jealous of their success. Remember you can appreciate and celebrate others without diminishing you. Genuinely feeling and expressing joy in other's success will enhance connections.

An authentic "Offering of Value" immediately transcends from the 'tangible' (transactions) to the spiritual. It's not so much about the material items we acquire, but more so The Genuine Feelings WE Experience. Wow s/he made me FEEL heard, understood, respected, and admired. S/he is "on the level" (My Level). I want to know more about that person.

In networking, having the ability to offer value to the people you meet is key to establishing meaningful connections built on mutual respect and understanding. Shifting your focus to the other person and connecting with their objectives can be incredibly powerful. You have the ability to help them progress toward their goals, whether by sharing your insights or making meaningful introductions to your network—you have the opportunity to make a significant impact. So, approach each networking event with the mindset of who can I help in this room and watch as your networking effectiveness skyrockets.

As you advance in your career and networking it is important to recognize that those you meet have encountered a multitude of professionals and have had good and bad experiences over that time. With this awareness, it is easy to see why networking requires patience. Each individual you meet wants assurance of your competence, professionalism, and trustworthiness before considering collaboration or introductions. Each of these pieces requires significant time and effort. Thus, it's essential to exercise patience, identify valuable connections, and consistently demonstrate reliability and professionalism. By doing so, you gradually build the trust and credibility necessary for fruitful professional relationships.

Don't get caught up in just collecting contacts. Become a connector, focusing on building genuine relationships. Seek out connections with people who share your interests or career aspirations. Engage in conversations that go beyond the "what do you do?" stage. This approach fosters a sense of mutual respect and shared purpose. By focusing on building genuine connections, you'll create a network that feels supportive and enriching. Remember, strong networks are built on trust and shared experiences.