Networking! Networking Networking! It is an overused terminology which I dont want to hear… enough lessons on Networking… here comes another post… another lecture… phew!

If you are emotionally burdened by the idea of networking, you perhaps are blessed to be an introvert.. Which is perfectly perfect.

But nonetheless, you need to network… you need to meet people, you need to spread that message.The best lesson I have learned in life is to find solutions rather than get into the vicious cycle of I cant do this..not my cup of tea. Full stop.

So what to do

Dig Deep What is it about networking that tires your senses? Is it the fear of initiating a conversation or the worry of creating that first impression? Is it the conversation or the people or the setting and ambiance ? Track your emotions and feelings,you will definitely find the answer. You can find a solution only if you know of the problem.Address this before your next networking event.

Follow your Passion – It becomes easy to meet people who share the same passion. When you are at your natural best, its easy to break ice. Thoughts and expressions find their own way and you enjoy the process. It could be anything, related or unrelated to your work-running, singing, cycling, movies, music, just anything.

Filter Well Attending too many networking events can drain your energy. Prioritize and filter the events you would really want to attend. Too much sugar does not enhance the taste, similarly too much networking eats into your limited time and energy. Time is most precious for a working professional, hence be ruthless in taking decision. Learn to say No to the party being hosted by your best friend, if you dont feel like going.

Be an Empathetic listener Start with being an empathetic listener. So, if you talk less and listen more perhaps, you are a better networker. People like to be heard, people like to connect with individuals who can extend a listening ear,the connection is genuine and deep. Once you feel connected with the other, it would be easier and more natural for you to open up.

Positive Reinforcement Success is always the proof in the pudding. Monitor and follow up with the new connections. Track your success for which you can give credit to networking. Figure out what went well, why was it successful. Positive reinforcement is the best way to start enjoying networking.

Enjoy The most important aspect of networking is go there to enjoy, share ideas, have meaningful conversations and not with a fixed agenda of selling your product or service. Once you start enjoying, you would be more confident more yourself and hence will have better chances of a meaningful connection.

Now you are ready for stress-free networking, remember to invite me over,I love to network!