When is the best time to network?

Is there a GOOD time to network?

Well - according to Allan Machann Jr. and Marcos Martinez , networking should be done everyday/all the time.

And in the words of my boy bestie, Philip C. :?

“Every opportunity to connect is an opportunity to network.”

(and I couldn’t agree more!)

But how do you network “all the time” without getting burnt out or stressed because you’re not on social media 24/7/365?

Here are two ways to virtually connect around the clock that won’t force you to give up your social life:

#1: Thoughtfully fill out your online profile.??

Whether that’s your LinkedIn bio, the “About Me” section of your website, or any dedicated spot that explains who you are and what you do (that little headline for LinkedIn counts!) - max out the character count so that others can dig in without having to wait for you to be present first.

Much like when dating, knowing who YOU are - and communicating that value forward - helps connect you with the right kind of person to make building a future relationship worth the trouble.

Before burning precious finite energy to network for the sake of checking some imaginary box,?figure out your end game.

Then find others who are likeminded, and when you find one, connect connect connect!

#2: “Plant seeds” by liking or commenting on posts that are relevant to you.

No matter if it resonates personally or professionally - what you comment on is what will continually show up in your feed.? And what you will continue to interact with. And what your existing network will continue to see.

Therefor - if you want to break into a new segment of the industry, or strengthen ties with certain people, hit that like button!

(especially here on LinkedIn since we allllll know that you + others probably won’t even see it for a week or a month later anyway…lol)

Investing a few minutes a day - when you wake up, during lunch, or perhaps while pumping gas or waiting for your DoorDash order to arrive - adds up over time.? If networking is important to you (kinda like working out, you know?), you’ll find a time to squeeze it in.??

And since no one has hours and hours of “free time” as an adult (especially one with kids!), you just gotta split that task into tiny pieces to sprinkle throughout the day.

What about you - any tips or tricks to share with others about when you’ve had good success with networking?