What do you do if networking feels like self-promotion?

There has to be a relationship before there can be an ask. It feels less "yucky" when you have a relationship with the person you are asking for assistance. Most of us don't think twice about asking our friends and family for help. Often, you call someone and say, "Who do you know that can fix my oven?" It's easy because there is familiarity, and you would do the same for the person you are asking for help. Career networking is the same. The most basic ask is, "Who do you know?" The catch is that most of us don't have career relationships we foster until we desperately need them. Your career community must be nurtured even when you don't need it. (Psst. You always need it.) It's all relationships and give and take.

Redefining networking involves shifting the focus from self-promotion to actual connection-building. Instead of seeing it as a self-serving activity, consider it an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and contribute. Approach networking with curiosity, seeking to understand others' perspectives and experiences. Share your passions and interests authentically, start meaningful conversations. By cultivating relationships based on mutual respect and shared interests, networking becomes an enriching experience for both parties rather than just a means to an end.

View the networking process as information gathering. Do more listening than talking. Think of good lines of questioning before you enter a meeting or event. Ask about previous decision points in their career so that you don't come across as only interested in whether they can hire you right now. In general, people love talking about themselves and their career paths, and your enthusiasm for their roles will make you feel more like a curious learner than a boastful self-promoter.

It is okay to self-promote but ensure that you don’t go overboard. That said, it’s important to keep in mind the “Principles of Networking” while you network: ? Networking is about building Human Connections. ? Adopt a mindset of mutual benefit; it is about “Pay it forward”. ? Relationships are like “banks”: invest before withdrawing. ? Recognize others’ achievements, share valuable information. ? Find common ground/interests. ? Ask questions; listen to understand. ? Networking is a long-term skill development.

O Networking é a troca e o diálogo. As virtudes de uma pessoa devem falar por si e s?o naturalmente reconhecidas por meio do relacionamento que é construído. Sempre podemos aprender algo se filtrarmos as informa??es e teremos sempre algo a compartilhar se vasculharmos nossa experiência. A autenticidade é uma meta a ser perseguida, pois estamos muito acostumados ao personagem que nos for?amos a encenar no mundo corporativo. O fato de nos promovermos n?o é algo ruim em si, mas n?o pode ser algo fabricado artificialmente.

If networking feels like self-promotion, try reframing it as relationship-building instead. Focus on truly connecting with others, understanding their needs, and finding ways to support them. Move the conversation away from you and toward mutual interests or goals. Authenticity shines when you approach networking as an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and make meaningful connections, rather than just promoting yourself.

Networking is an investment in your business .It is the best way to market your product or services.I personally network a lot. I meet people and learn a lot from their journeys & take it as a motivation for my own growth.

Change my mind set by talking it out with friends and gurus to overcome the negativity and refocus. One just not lose perspective unnecessarily

One should never hesitate in connecting with like minded people. The learning from people's experiences and stories are having far more worth and value as compared to books or any other learning source. Never shy to learn!

Focus on adding value as opposed to what you're selling. Don't become a "Seagull Networker" - someone who just talks about themselves and craps on everything and everyone below. Instead, concentrate on how you can be of service to others. The best way to help yourself get what you want is by helping others get what they want.

I like using the phrase making connections to feel less one-sided. These connections can also include relationships you have built through community activities, volunteering, children's sports, or other outside events. This natural engagement with others can lead to business conversations and connect you to someone in your target industry or company.

If you're connecting with someone, chances are that you already have something in common. By offering support, knowledge, or another connection, you can enhance the networking experience and take it to the next level. When I first started networking, a connection introduced me to another professional in the field. By doing this, that connection opened up my world, and I am forever grateful. Since then, I've also been able to connect people and pass it forward. Everyone has something to offer, even folks just starting out.

When discussing your own work, focus on sharing experiences and the lessons you’ve learned rather than just listing achievements. This approach can lead to more engaging and relatable conversations. Be yourself and let your personality shine through. People are more likely to respond positively to someone who is genuine and sincere. Authenticity reduces the feel of a transactional relationship, making the connection more enjoyable and less forced. Seek out common interests or experiences that can serve as a foundation for a conversation. This can make interactions more natural and less like you are trying to sell yourself.

I believe the main purpose of networking is to get benefit in business for companies and for individual at personal level. So, personal promotion should be fine.

Networking is a fabulous way to get out there, get yourself seen, start building your own personal brand . In person specifically people get to meet the real you. Something that will help you have confidence is to just concentrate on two things .. 1. create and learn off my heart so its comfortable and genuine and you believe it - a elevator pitch - just 2 mins who you are, what your passion is and what value you bring and 2. go with a view to listen and ask questions , be curious about other people rather than go with a view to talk about yourself

When you draw up your networking list, bucket your people into close and distant contacts. The close ones should be the people who will help you with little pushback. The second group will take more nuance and may require more outreach before you get a response. Make the networking ask easy. For each person on your list, think of one easy thing they can do to help you: an introduction, looking up a name, a LinkedIn recommendation, insider info, etc. Don't expect them to get you a job or an interview. Most don't know how to do that. You can ask if their company has a referral bonus program, so it would be a win-win if they submit your resume. If you ask for a recommendation, offer one. Always ask if you can help them.