As business
students, it's ideal for us to be as comfortable with networking as possible--
kind of like breathing. But life isn't that perfect and not all of us can
network with such ease as some people could. However, if we could find the
"fun" in networking, then maybe it wouldn't be so bad.
The article linked
below talks about how the basic goal is to meet new people and expand your
professional network, no matter what the setting is. A little imagination is
all that's needed (and maybe add in some dedication as well) to turn networking
into a fun activity. Some ideas I found in the article:
- Pick an activity you like and mingle there
- Try to find the hot spots within your industry
- Find a cause you like and volunteer
- Again, volunteer! (especially in big events)
- Make use of your current connections (hint: high school and college)
Personally, I don't
find networking events that bad. However, I do agree that just by getting out
there and being involved in something will already increase your (professional)
network.
Personally, I find the term "networking" to be very icky. It implies the use of people as means to an end, and not an end in themselves.
ReplyDeleteI prefer the idea of a connecting (surely you've heard the term "superconnectors," those people who know absolutely everyone?).
Connecting means being curious, gathering information you might put to use later on, not just for your own benefit, but for the benefit of the people you know. Connecting two people with similar or symbiotic goals or interests, or sending along some information you know someone will find interesting or useful.
This is a lot easier to do with confidence because you are being of service to people, not trying to get something from them.
Also, something I'm not good at yet but am trying to do more often: go back and thank people. Comment on blogs. Write notes to old teachers, mentors, bosses, friends. People love to be appreciated.