Networking! If you pride yourself on being independent, you might think you don’t need a network to be successful, but you do. Meaningful connections are crucial to achieving success-it takes a village. If you don’t like networking, try to reframe your mindset.
Here are 4 strategies to turn networking in to something you could enjoy.
- Understand what networking is — and isn’t
It’s not connecting on LinkedIn and asking for something. Build relationships over time so that when you do need something, you have built credibility to ask for it.
- Identify people you truly respect
Did you hear a speaker you enjoyed? Connect and thank them for the time and tell them what interested you about the topic. Network with professors, neighbors, fellow club members, alumni and more.
- Recognize how a lack of networking may be holding you back
80% of jobs are found through networking. If you don’t have connections, how are you going to find out about opportunities?
- Identify your vehicle for networking
LinkedIn is your best tool in this virtual world. Remember LinkedIn groups, Facebook groups, Meetups and more.
Read more in this Harvard Business Review article
