Does the term “networking activities” bring a tinge of anxiety or dread for you? Networking has become a scary word for many people. But there is a way to network and still be true to yourself— and have fun!
I am generally not a fan of planned networking activities or events with 500 business professionals.
Making valuable business connections is not a game of volume.
It’s a matter of making authentic connections that allow you to be true to yourself.
Most people get intimidated by massive networking activities anyway.
Fortunately, there is a better way to meet people in your target audience.
It starts with a change in perspective.
Think of it as making authentic connections and meeting new friends.
Doesn’t that sound much more inviting than attending a networking event?
Once you have made this shift in perspective, you can set out to find people with whom you can connect authentically. This is where being true to yourself comes into play.
Remember the adage that people do business with those they know, like, and trust? You foster the know-like-trust factor by meeting people in a way that allows you to be true to yourself and make authentic connections.
My advice is to meet people one-on-one or in small groups.
This is ideal if you are introverted or get overwhelmed by huge networking events.
A great way to meet people this way is by joining groups based on things you enjoy doing. For instance, find a rock climbing meetup group if you’re into rock climbing. If you are a woman who wants to meet and interact with other women in business, find a group for women entrepreneurs. If you like art, go to an art gallery opening. Take a class on something you are interested in. No matter your interests, finding groups that resonate is a perfect opportunity to network– er, I mean, make authentic connections while being true to yourself.
In the Boulder/Denver area, where I live, an online magazine called 303 sends out a weekly list of events. They announce restaurant openings, gallery openings, beer tastings, and other local events. This is an excellent resource for finding groups to meet up with that align with your interests.
As you get to know people, ask them about THEM.
This is one of the best ways to open a conversation with someone. One question to ask is, “What do you do for work?” Usually, they will ask you what you do for work, and then you will have an opportunity to share.
And have fun! If it’s not fun, you might as well not do it. This is why I recommend going with areas of your interest. You never know who you are going to meet by doing this. If you don’t believe me, ask your ten closest friends how they got their last job. I promise you, 8-9 of them will tell you it’s because of someone they knew.
When you think of it as meeting people and making connections instead of networking, new opportunities appear everywhere you go!
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