How to wire yourself for networking

Networking is for when you don't need to be networking. Its about building relationships. When I was younger I was often told "its not what you know but who you know that counts". Networking, especially here on Linkedin, but also in person (Covid constraints permitting), it is today's way of expanding "who you know". And more precisely, "who knows you". I have made hundreds of contacts and connections over the years. And in one case, easily 10 years ago, if not longer. Recently I reached out to one specific contact to let him know that I had been laid off because a job I had been holding was eliminated by a recent employer. So we chatted for a bit and then time passed. Five weeks later, this friend called me back and told me there could be a possible job opening in his company, perfect for my skill sets and experience, wanting to know if I would be interested. And of course the position was not even posted publicly. So I threw my hat into the ring so to speak. And at this point, the only reason I don't have that job is that in that particular instance, the company is having major supply chain issues so they decided to hire a purchasing guru for the moment. But when/if things improve, I expect to stay in touch with my friend.

Networking is a game changer if you connect with people you truly admire and want to learn from. But definitely it works better if you let go of any expectations of getting something out of it, and just enjoy the learning. It makes you more authentic, and people will resonate more with your energy.

How can people make?#networking?part of their daily lives? Make networking a habit. Join professional associations, listservs, LinkedIn groups, etc., related to your area of interest. Many folks are looking for advice as it relates to best practices within these groups. Be sure to respond to those calls for help and make your own asks. Being reciprocal in best practice sharing not only feels good but also helps build your reputation as a leader in the field. I often think of these experiences as mini-informational interviews and like to set up calls with folks in similar positions as mine or who are working on similar projects. Learning and sharing through real-world case studies helps to take the edge off the term networking and positions it in a way to create authentic relationships. You should always be networking, not just when you are looking for a job or applying for one. The more natural it feels, the better prepared you will be when you do have to make a heavier ask.?#gethired?#getahead?#jobsearchstrategies?#authenticconnections

I think the point you are making re: making it a way of life is essential, but I also think that the way people network needs to suit their communication style for maximum sustainability. Some people are great if you put them in a full conference room: let them go, they'll work the room! For others, that's marginally above putting thrown onto the rack in a medieval dungeon, and even 1:1 conversations aren't particularly welcome. Most of us don't fall at those extremes but rather somewhere in a middle space between them, in my experience at least. Therefore, a solution that lends itself to how people like to communicate would seem indicated. I like in-person conversations or voice calls, but just don't like video calls, something about them always feels staged and more performance rather than connection. So I prefer using voice calls during the pandemic as I don't find the alternatives palatable. That's how I prefer to network, although of late I've been less good about it than I would like.

A lot of people are scared of networking. It doesn't have to be scary as long as you approach it from the following perspective: a) look for the win-win - how can you help the person with whom you're speaking? Can you offer them a fresh perspective, a book recommendation, or an introduction to someone in your network? Always aim to be helping! b) aim to create a long-term relationship - it shouldn't feel transactional. Note what they're interested in. Even simply sharing an article down the line on something they care about can strengthen the relationship. c) listen - active listening is HARD. However, truly listening to someone (without using the time to think about your response) goes a long, long way. The holiday season is a wonderful time to reconnect with existing contacts and foster new relationships! You can even get the ball rolling by asking how they're planning on spending their time off.

Networking is a mindset and the hobby. This is one of the topic in my hobby section of my CV. ??. I love it since my childhood. If someone starts doing networking just to get profit then it will not work. But if someone do networking without expecting help, it will work. Specially in the COVID-19 time, importance of networking can be seen. #networking #Linkedin

When I was looking for a job I joined a local networking group. During that time I would have coffee with others to help ME and provide support to others. Once I landed a new job I joined other networking groups as I realized how much it meant when others provided support to get me through the tough days. Connecting with others in person or virtual is truly important after so many have experienced a lot during COVID. For some its a "saving grace" to be heard, and for others its the beginning of a true friendship. Your networking can have a lasting effect on people and those who prosper might be the same people reach out to you for a much better opportunity in the future. Give without expecting anything in return Giving your time doesn't cost anything. Thank you ??