By Nicole Paulson
Networking. For some, it’s as natural as breathing. For others, it’s about as appealing as a trip to the DMV. But fear not, mastering the art of networking is a superpower anyone can unlock.
Think of it like leveling up your social skills. You’ll be the networking ninja who always knows the right person to chat up. And just like ninjas, it’ll take practice.
So, how do you become a networking master? I’ll walk you through the strategies and organizations that can help you level up.
LinkedIn. LinkedIn. LinkedIn.
LinkedIn is an incredible networking tool for professionals. With over 800 million members, it provides unparalleled access to a vast network of contacts across industries.
The platform makes it easy to connect with
- Colleagues
- Industry peers
- Potential employers or clients
- Thought leaders
- Alumni
For networking success, be active on LinkedIn, build a strong profile, and leverage its powerful tools to cultivate valuable professional relationships.
Rule #1: Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Networking is all about putting yourself out there. That means stepping away from the safety of your phone, tablet, or laptop and actually making eye contact with other humans. I know, crazy right?
But seriously, the more you practice mingling, introducing yourself, and striking up conversations, the easier it becomes. Start small by chatting with coworkers you don’t know well. Then work your way up to industry events and conferences. Pretty soon you’ll be working the room like a pro.
Rule #2: Ask Thoughtful Questions
The secret to being a networking ninja? Become a master listener. People like to talk about themselves, so ask open-ended questions that get them sharing. “How did you get started in this field?” “What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on?”
Not only will this make the other person feel valued, it also gives you valuable insight into their interests and challenges. Use this intel to offer genuine connections and support down the line.
Rule #3: Follow Up (But Not Too Much)
You crushed it at the event, swapping stories and contact info left and right. But don’t let those new connections go cold! Follow up within a day or two with a friendly message.
“It was great meeting you at the XYZ conference. I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help as you [their challenge].”
The key is to be helpful, not needy. No one likes a stage-five clinger. So stick to one or two follow-ups max, then let the relationship grow organically.
Networking doesn’t have to be scary or sleazy. With the right mindset and a little practice, you can level up your people skills and become a networking ninja. So get out there, make some connections, and watch your career (and social life) take off!
