10 Networking Tips For People Who Hate Networking

10 Networking Tips For People Who Hate Networking Lets be honest fruchtwein people dont find networking fun. Self-promotion isnt easy, especially when its a persons career thats at stake. But we all know that these days, it can be hard to land a job without a connection so whether or leid youre job searching right now, the mora connections you can build and maintain, the better off you are when you do decide to move forward in your career.10 networking tips.Networking doesnt have to be painful, and adopting some easy habits can help you build connections without feeling like youre shamelessly tossing around your business cards. If youre not into networking, here are 8 ways to make the process a bit more bearable and a lot more beneficial1. Practice talking about yourself.Practice talking about yourself and your career. You may feel silly doing it, but it can save you from stumbling over your words when youre under more pressure. Practice in the mirror or with a friend or significa nt other until you feel confident with your words and your tone.2. Outline your goals.Outline your career goals, and make sure youre comfortable articulating them. Networking will come more naturally if you have a good sense of what youre looking for or where you see yourself in five (or 15) years.Defining your goals will also direct you toward the kinds of networking events you choose to pursue, whether within your office or externally, and away from exploring options that might be a waste of time.3. Be genuine.Part of whats tough about networking is that it can feel forced, and you may feel pressured to embellish or stretch the truth but remember that keeping up a faade isnt sustainable in the long-term, and it might make you appear more stiff than friendly and personable.If youre speaking to someone who might be helpful in a future prospect, its important to be true to yourself if that opportunity pans out, youll want to be able to be honest and comfortable in your new situation .4. Listen and ask questions.When youre networking, its easy to get caught up in talking about yourself, but its equally important to show that youre interested in what the other person has to say. Being invested in the conversation will make you more memorable and enjoyable to talk to, and it might also lead the discussion to a topic thats of interest to you.5. Do your research.Do your research. Whether youre attending an event or reaching out to someone on LinkedIn, familiarize yourself with the people, companies or topics youll be talking to or about, so you are clearly informed and invested at the outset.6. Keep an open mind.Every connection you have has the potential to be valuable, so be open-minded when meeting people. Were networking all the time, even if not in a formal context.Keep in mind that you never know which friends or friends of friends might eventually cross paths with you professionally or might be able to introduce you to a potential employer or future colleague .7. Know your value.Consider yourself a valuable resource, too. Networking is a two-way street you might be a crucial connection to anyone you meet, and people are more likely to think of connecting you with others if youre personable and helpful.8. Follow up.Keep in touch This is one of the most important and easiest ways to network with both new and old connections. Email those you meet at meetings or events so they remember you it takes just minutes to send a musikmusiknote thats brief yet personal and specific, and building those lines of communication can be the basis for a long-term connection.9. Start a group.Having trouble finding people to connect with? Make yourself a resource by starting your own networking or industry group. You can make it virtual on Facebook or another social networking site or host an in-person Meetup. This not only gives you a forum to network with others, but youll also come to be known as an important resource (and doer) in your own rite.10. Seek guidance.Youre a proactive person. Thats why youre seeking networking advice in the first place you want to make things happen for yourself. But that doesnt mean you cant ask for and receive help. Friends, family members, acquaintances, people you meet at parties they can all be valuable resources when it comes to helping you advance in your career. Dont be afraid to make the effort nobodys going to hate you for wanting to boost yourself.Dont be shy about reaching out to old colleagues or friends, too maintaining connections from all areas of your life is important. You never know when you might want to call on someone for advice or a reference, and youll have an easier time doing so if it hasnt been five or 10 years since you were brde in touch.How to build your network.It can be difficult to build a network from the ground up, especially when youre a recent graduate or starting out in a new industry. Just remember that everyone started in your position, even top-level executive s.If you recently graduated from college, start with connections from your alma mater. Many schools have alumni networks with directories, and fellow alumnae who are farther along in their careers will probably welcome the chance to connect with you. Search for people in your industry theyll be the most helpful. Professors and your career center can be good resources, too.If youre looking to change industries or just generally need a network boost, use any and all resources at your disposal. Attend industry panels and events and talk to as many people as you can there, no matter how important or high-level they are. Peers can be a great resource, too You should also be sure to optimize your LinkedIn profile, as well as proactively connect with people you admire. Dont be afraid to reach out to people you dont know with a brief note about why youre a fan of their work you never know what might come of itThese are just some basic tips for building a network from the beginning. As you get more immersed in your industry, youll find plenty of natural circumstances to network and meet more people.For more on networkingHow to Network Without Feeling ScuzzyCheck out this read for networking tips without feeling like youre forcing it.How to Network When You Dont Like NetworkingIf you dont like networking, youre not alone. Heres how to do it when you dont love it.Reasons to Network With WomenWomen should network for a number of reasons. Heres why.