“Hi, I’m Mary Catherine, and I’m everyone’s new best friend.” That’s how I introduce myself in nearly every setting, whether I’m at a work event, a conference, or stuck in the TSA line at the airport. It’s a line that tends to get a chuckle, sometimes an eye-roll, but always a reaction. More importantly, it’s a line that reflects my approach to networking – one that has helped me build meaningful connections and open doors to new opportunities.
Networking has become a buzzword in today’s professional world. We are constantly told that it’s essential for career success and that we need to constantly network to get ahead. But for many of us, the thought of networking can be daunting. It brings to mind images of awkward small talk, forced interactions, and a sense of inauthenticity. However, I believe that the secret to networking is to stop networking.
Yes, you read that right. Instead of approaching networking as a task or a means to an end, we should focus on building genuine relationships. Networking should not be about collecting business cards or making a pitch, but rather about making a connection with another person. When we shift our mindset from networking to building relationships, we can create meaningful and lasting connections that can benefit us both personally and professionally.
So how can we build these genuine relationships? The key is to be authentic, curious, and generous.
First and foremost, be yourself. People can sense when we are being insincere or putting on a front. Instead of trying to impress others, focus on being genuine and showing your true self. This will help you build trust and create a deeper connection with the person you are talking to.
Next, be genuinely curious about the other person. Ask them about their interests, their career, and their passions. Listen attentively and show a genuine interest in what they have to say. This will not only help you learn more about the person, but it will also make them feel valued and appreciated.
Another important aspect of building relationships is being generous. This doesn’t necessarily mean giving material things, but rather giving your time, knowledge, and support. Offer to help someone with a project or introduce them to someone in your network who can be of assistance. By being generous, you are showing that you care about the other person’s success and well-being, which can go a long way in building a strong relationship.
It’s also important to remember that networking is a two-way street. Don’t just focus on what you can gain from a connection, but also think about how you can add value to their life or career. This could be through sharing resources, offering advice, or simply being a supportive friend. By approaching networking with a mindset of giving rather than receiving, you will not only build stronger relationships, but you will also feel more fulfilled and satisfied.
In addition to these key principles, it’s also important to be proactive in building relationships. Don’t wait for networking events to come to you – seek out opportunities to connect with others. This could be through attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, or simply reaching out to someone you admire on LinkedIn. The more you put yourself out there, the more chances you have to build meaningful relationships.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of follow-up. After meeting someone, make sure to follow up with them. This could be through a simple email or a coffee catch-up. By staying in touch, you are showing that you value the relationship and are interested in maintaining it.
In conclusion, the secret to networking is to stop networking. Instead, focus on building genuine relationships by being authentic, curious, and generous. By shifting our mindset and approach to networking, we can create meaningful connections that can benefit us both personally and professionally. So the next time someone asks you to network, remember to introduce yourself as “Hi, I’m Mary Catherine, and I’m everyone’s new best friend”. Who knows, you just might make a new best friend and open doors to new opportunities along the way.