Courage, Curiosity, and Connection - The Foundation of Networking

By Jean LaVallie , Founder and President Women Entrepreneurs Secrets of Success (WESOS)

"Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities." — Michele Jennae

My Networking Journey?

When my kids grew up and left home, I found myself facing a world I hadn’t been a part of for 25 years. As a stay-at-home mom, my days were filled with nurturing my children, managing our household, and supporting my family. Suddenly, I was stepping into the professional world, taking on my first “out of the house” job as a sales representative. I was excited but equally terrified.

I vividly remember my first networking meeting. Walking into the room, I was immediately overwhelmed by the confident, professional demeanor of everyone else there. They seemed to know exactly what they were doing, effortlessly engaging in conversations and making connections. In contrast, I felt like an imposter, unsure of where to start and intimidated by the thought of introducing myself. I didn’t know the first thing about networking.

Courage and Determination

Despite my fears, I knew that if I wanted to succeed, I had to find the courage to step out of my comfort zone. Courage, I believe, is the first and most crucial ingredient in the recipe for successful networking. It takes courage to walk into a room full of strangers, to initiate conversations, and to present yourself with confidence. But courage alone isn’t enough.

Determination was my next ally. I was determined to make the most of this new chapter in my life. I committed to attending networking events regularly, even when I felt out of place. Each meeting was a learning opportunity, and with every interaction, I grew a little more confident. However, it wasn’t just about showing up and being brave. I realized that to truly connect with others, I needed something more.

The Power of Curiosity

Networking isn’t just about selling to anyone with a pulse; it’s about creating meaningful, trusting relationships. This is where a healthy dose of curiosity comes into play. I learned to be genuinely curious about the people I met. Instead of focusing solely on what I could gain from a connection, I shifted my mindset to understanding others—what drove them, what challenges they faced, and what they were passionate about.

By asking questions and truly listening to their stories, I began to build authentic relationships. These conversations were no longer just transactions; they became exchanges of ideas and opportunities. People appreciated my genuine interest in them, and this mutual respect laid the foundation for long-term, collaborative relationships.

Creating and Nurturing Your Network

Over time, my network grew, not just in numbers but in depth. I built bonds of collaboration with individuals I resonated with, creating a supportive community where we helped each other succeed. Networking, I discovered, is much more than a business tool; it’s about fostering a network that supports and nurtures you.

By embracing courage, determination, and curiosity, I created my approach to networking. I connected with people on a deeper level, creating a web of relationships ?built on trust and mutual support. These connections didn’t just help me grow my business; they enriched my professional and personal life.

Conclusion

Michele Jennae’s quote beautifully encapsulates the essence of networking. It’s not just about making connections; it’s about creating meaningful relationships that connect people with ideas and opportunities. Whether you’re new to networking or looking to deepen your connections, remember to approach each interaction with courage, determination, and a genuine curiosity for others. By doing so, you’ll build a network that not only supports your business but also nurtures and inspires you.

So, the next time you walk into a networking event, take a deep breath, summon your courage, and open yourself up to the possibilities. You never know where a genuine connection might lead.

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