💡 Networking as a concept

What comes to mind when you think of ‘Networking’? We hear this word all the time, and it’s constantly emphasised to us how important and crucial it is in helping us to be successful in our careers. But how many of you dislike or even hate the idea of networking?

Fret not! I totally get it because…I'm one of those people who actively 'hated' the thought of networking! I found the concept of the process really shallow and insincere - and people can tell if you're just trying to leverage off them!

But my perspective on that networking is 'bad' has changed across the years.

When I look back at what has happened since I start to 'network'- it turns out, putting myself out there to meet others and create connection was the best thing that I had been doing for myself because…

AWESOME THINGS STARTED HAPPENING. WHAT?!

Because those awesome opportunities started happening, I guess networking couldn’t be all that bad? I decided to reframe the way I looked at 'networking' as an activity.

What were parts of it that I didn’t like? What bits could I change?

For example, If I didn't like the ‘shallow’ bit - what could I do to build more intentional and meaningful relationships?

🧐 Changing your mindset about networking

Instead of going in negative, all judgy thinking:

• OMG this is going to SUCK
• It's going to be AWKWARD
• This is USELESS, I'm never going to get anyone's ATTENTION
• This whole session is gonna be ONE BIG CHORE

Try re-framing your mindset!

Approach it:

• with an open and curious mind
• and pursue what’s interesting to you
• and make new friends or connections with similar interests

Generally it's easy to connect with people who are interested in the same thing!

Or you could completely go the other way and GAMIFY it 👾

Some people like to have a target on how many people they have networked with, making sure they get a card etc - it's definitely a good way to keep track as well.

I'd say, do what you're comfortable with. BUT I’m someone who is a true believer of creating deep and meaningful relationships with specific people - so obviously the first way works better for me :)

❌ The absolute WORST way to network

As a creator, I receive a ton of messages - especially with folks who need my help. There are some people I choose to help, and not others. Why?

Below is an example of one of my biggest pet peeves on - please NEVER EVER reach out to anyone like this. I guarantee they will likely ignore your message or block you.

So whats wrong with this message?