Network the Authentic Way
my relationship with my folks is give-and-take / and I done took so much, now give me my glory
outkast - liberation
If you find that you aren't progressing, take inventory of your skills and capabilities but also your relationships.
Though we know relationships are integral to achieving anything significant, it can be overwhelming and feel inauthentic to attend networking events. That's understandable.
Networking should feel genuine, meaningful and be organic, where possible. Don’t force it. Where you meet a person, or on which platform you connect on doesn’t matter as much as what you say, how you say it, and what you offer to give.
Here’s a few tips to keep your network fresh and impactful.
Find one loose connection a week to reach out to.
Generally, a loose connection is someone that you had a favorable time with but haven't spoken to in a while. Oftentimes, former coworkers or classmates are loose connections. However vendors you’ve worked with, or previous HR professionals you’ve known are loose connections too. Think broadly but strategically.
Ask them how they are doing?
Be genuine. So many fools rush in and start by saying what they need without first giving space for greetings and checking in on a personal level. Don’t be like that.
Find out what they are working on or what they are challenged by.
We’re all figuring out something. Whether it's how to scale our team, or potty train a kid, everyone is challenged by something. Get a sense of how your connection is doing and what it is they may need help with.
Offer help, support, or perspective where you can.
If you have something to offer, share it. Even if you’re early in your career and don’t feel as if you have much to give, ask them how you can help. Maybe you can connect them with someone else in your network they’d benefit from knowing.
Know how they might be able to help you.
What are you currently working on or toward that they should know about? If you’re working on something at the office and it's difficult for you, ask them if they would mind giving you feedback on it. Are you looking for your next opportunity? If so, say that. Shape your ask to the individual you’re talking to - take their strengths and bandwidth into consideration, and always, aim to give more than what you ask for.
A solid network is built one exchange at a time. Follow these tips to make it genuine and meaningful.