Seven Steps to Make Networking Easier — Even Fun!

We all know networking is good for us … but many of us don’t relish the thought of actually doing it. The awkwardness of introductions, the risk of rejection, the time commitment involved, the uncertainty about proper etiquette: all of the uncertainty can be paralyzing. But in this era of fast turnover, layoffs, and other varieties of employment churn growing by the day, networking is more important than ever. It’s a powerful way to reinforce and invigorate your career. 
Still feeling hesitant? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you feel like a networking pro.

1. Attitude Adjustment. Don’t enter the experience miserable or terrified. That energy will be clear! Instead, decide that you’re great at networking. “Fake it till you make it” is a saying for a reason! Just set the intention to be a person that you’d enjoy spending time with. You don’t have to be perfect, and nobody expects you to be.

2. Do Your Homework. Research the person and their company before you reach out, and definitely do a little more before you talk. If you have a mutual contact, ask that person what you should know. Prepare a few open-ended questions to get the conversation started. They don’t have to be complex. “What’s the most interesting part of your job?” “What book are you reading?” or even, “What’s your favorite app?” 

3. Take the Leap. Reaching out can be the scariest part of networking, but remember that other people want and need connections too. Be brave and hit that “send” button. Also, be intentional with your outreach. A couple of meaningful interactions are much better than a form letter sent to a hundred people. Explain who you are, how you know of them, be polite, and suggest a way and a time to meet (aim for half an hour) to kick off the scheduling process. 

4. Be Generous. The more you give, the more you get. Sometimes that gift is your attention and gratitude. Other times you’re able to offer your own referral or knowledge. And either way, sometimes the best gift you can give is being a good listener. (It’s not given often enough!)

5. Say “Thank You.” Show your appreciation for someone’s time, attention, or willingness to offer you information or connections. A simple but heartfelt email – or, better yet, a handwritten note – captures attention and is rarely thrown away.

6. Don’t Forget to Look Back. If you find yourself looking longingly back at connections who are still with your old employer, and wishing you were part of the great things happening there now… consider whether that’s an impulse you should follow! At EVERSANA INTOUCH, we’re proud to have scores of “Boomerangs” – employees who have returned after working elsewhere. 

7. Let Go of Goals. Even when you’re happy where you are, networking is still valuable. The best networking is less about achieving an immediate goal, and more about simply strengthening relationships. 

Networking might be a lot less scary if we stopped calling it “networking” and just called it… having friends. Because, at the end of the day, that’s all it is. You don’t have to be besties with everyone in your company or industry. But being open and helping good people out is the heart of networking, and it can feel a lot less intimidating when you think of it that way.