If we’re being honest, the word “networking” often carries a cringeworthy connotation. It’s not unfounded, though. After all, networking can easily feel forced, awkward, and unenjoyable when approached the wrong way.
And the problem with that is it rarely results in a positive outcome.
It’s not that networking isn’t important or effective–it absolutely is. But the key is to do it right.
So, whatever your goals and the setting for your networking opportunities, here are six tips for networking organically–not obnoxiously.
1. Don’t Go Into It With an Agenda
All too often, people go into networking situations with a defined agenda. They want to gain something from it. But that also often means gaining something from someone.
When people are networking for this purpose, it’s an easy read for anyone they’re speaking to. It can feel pushy and make people uncomfortable.
Knowing that someone wants something from you can make a networking interaction unpleasant and will ultimately backfire.
2. Be Proactive in Offering Help
On the flip side of that coin, try to approach networking from the perspective of how you can help others.
Rather than wondering what other people can do for you, think about what you can do for others. Be sincere. Get proactive in offering to help, facilitate connections, and to share insights or resources.
When people see that you’re invested in their interests, they’ll be much more inspired to support you too.
What you put out into the universe is generally what you’ll get back: be supportive of other people and you can bet they’ll return the favor.
3. Put Yourself in the Right Places for Organic Networking
While there are a ton of great in-person and virtual networking opportunities available, from events to trade shows and conferences, there are also ways to incorporate organic networking into your daily life.
For instance, flexible office spaces focus not only on providing workspaces but also on creating a community of like-minded professionals who all share a common goal of wanting to work hard and be connected to other people.
When you immerse yourself in a community like that, you’re constantly being exposed to new connections in a low-pressure environment. And when you factor in community events and social mixers, the opportunities are virtually endless.
4. Don’t Force It
The best networking happens naturally. So, it’s important that you’re on the lookout for opportunities when they arise, and ready to pound on them, but that you don’t try to force them to happen. When networking feels forced, it simply becomes uncomfortable, and the chances of long-term success in building a mutually beneficial relationship diminish.
5. Listen More
All too often in networking settings, people neglect to listen proactively. Instead, they’re just waiting for their chance to speak.
But it’s important to listen proactively to what people are saying. For one, it will make them feel engaged and show them you’re truly interested. But by truly listening to people, you’ll also become better acquainted with people and what they do so you can give more consideration to mutually beneficial opportunities.
Here are a few tips to help you listen more proactively:
- Strive to Learn: Instead of approaching the conversation wanting to tell and inform, approach it with the goal of learning. Think of the person you’re speaking with as somebody who can teach you something.
- Focus on the Speaker: Force yourself to actually listen to what you’re hearing. Avoid multitasking at all costs and actively suppress the urge to think about what you’re going to say next.
- Drill Down to the Details: Don’t just scratch the surface. Get all available details. Ask directive, specific questions that focus on the conversation.
- Summarize and Fact Check: Reiterate points to drill them into your memory. Ask for clarity on things you feel unclear about or don’t understand.
6. Reinforce Existing Relationships Too
It’s easy to think only about net-new connections when it comes to networking. But that’s only the first step. Real, authentic networking involves a dedicated effort to maintaining and reinforcing strong relationships over time.
If you do gain a new connection, make sure you follow up with a note or email. If you connect on LinkedIn, keep in contact by engaging with their posts and staying informed of any news. And if you ever come across an opportunity, article, or connection that might be valuable to them, make sure to share it. That way, you can stay top of mind without being pushy.
Networking doesn’t have to feel pushy, awkward, and unnatural. It all comes down to simply taking the right approach.
If you’d like to learn more about The Post and how flexible office spaces can help supercharge your professional network, get in touch with us today. Our team is available to speak with you.