Networking is a term that often elicits groans and eye-rolls. For many, it conjures images of awkward business events filled with forced conversations, overextended handshakes, and a sea of business cards. However, as I have come to learn through my own experiences, networking can be so much richer, more genuine, and surprisingly life-changing. It’s about building lasting relationships, connecting people, and creating opportunities—not just for yourself but for others as well. In this blog post, I’ll share insights from my journey and delve deeper into the true essence of networking.
Networking: A Relationship-Building Endeavor
At its core, networking is about forging genuine connections with people. Unlike the often transactional nature of business-centric networking events, building relationships means taking a sincere interest in others. It’s about understanding their passions, career paths, and even their personal lives. When you create these authentic bonds, networking becomes less of a chore and more of a fulfilling endeavor.
For instance, moving from Nashville to northern Kentucky was daunting, but the connections I cultivated over the years eased this transition significantly. Friendships from as far back as my college days in the mid-90s played pivotal roles in this move. People I hadn’t spoken to in years came forward to offer help, rooted in the trust and camaraderie we’d established decades ago.
The Concept of Borrowed Trust
One fascinating aspect of networking is "borrowed trust." When you connect someone with another person or opportunity, you are essentially lending your credibility to that connection. This borrowed trust facilitates introductions that may otherwise never happen.
For example, a friend I reconnected with after years was instrumental in helping me find doctors and caregivers in my new location. Her recommendations carried weight because of our longstanding relationship. Borrowed trust is a powerful tool, effectively cutting through the uncertainty that often accompanies new engagements. It underscores the importance of maintaining relationships, even loosely, as you never know when they might come into play.
Networking Beyond College and Career
You might think, “I don’t have old college friends or those types of connections.” But networking starts wherever you are, with whatever connections you have. It can begin with something as simple as asking for a recommendation. Whether you need a reliable handyman, a new job, or a good dentist, word of mouth can be a powerful resource.
My journey post-college is a testament to this. Despite my reservations, I took a part-time job at UPS, thanks to a friend’s mom who knew a recruiter. That job led to five promotions and eventually to a full-time position, shaping my career significantly. It all started because I voiced my need for a job and leveraged a connection that seemed unrelated at the time. UPS even funded my master's degree, a milestone I would never have considered achievable when I first took that job.
Actionable Networking Tips
Speak Up About Your Needs
One of the biggest hurdles, especially for women, is expressing our needs. Society often pressures us into maintaining a façade of having it all together. However, help can only come if you communicate your needs. Let your network know what you're looking for, whether it’s a job, a mentor, or even a good hairdresser.
Offer Your Connections
Networking isn't just about receiving; it’s about giving too. If someone in your network has a need and you know someone who can fulfill it, make the introduction. You don’t have to be responsible for the outcome; simply facilitating the connection can be hugely beneficial for both parties involved.
Maintain and Nurture Relationships
Maintaining your network doesn’t require frequent or lengthy interactions. A quick text, a catch-up call, or even a comment on social media can keep relationships alive. Consistent but simple engagement ensures that when you do need help, the relationship is not coming out of the blue.
Conclusion: Embrace the Accidental Moments
Networking is not just about career advancement or climbing the corporate ladder. It’s about enriching your journey through the people you meet. These connections can intertwine in ways you never expected, providing support, opportunities, and even lifelong friendships.
The next time you're hesitant about attending a networking event or sending that LinkedIn message, remember: you’re not just collecting business cards—you’re creating pathways for potential life-changing moments. Let's celebrate the growth that comes from living and learning together, embracing those accidental mentorship moments along the way.
Happy networking!
