Networking gets a bum rap. It can feel very purposeful and a bit phony. It brings to mind approaching strangers to initiate awkward conversations. Cocktail parties at conferences. Randomly assigned Zoom breakout rooms. Something we feel we must do, but don’t want to.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. For those who clam up when they think of networking as self-serving and awkward, there’s an easy fix: Make it other-serving.
When you help others, it feels good. It also creates connections through your kindness. That makes it the perfect win-win. Skeptics may respond, “But isn’t it self-serving if you’re being generous in order to get connections?” Well, yes. That’s why it’s important to put any ulterior motives to the side. Do it for the sheer pleasure of generosity.
Here are some simple ways you can help and support colleagues.
Share
Raise the voice of others. Social media makes this so easy. Click that share button whenever you read something you like, particularly posts from those in your professional circle. They will notice and appreciate your support. Bonus points: Add a comment to increase value. Similarly, add a rating and review to your favorite podcast or book. Your support makes a huge difference to the content creator and helps others find their work.
Further the Conversation
Take your social media support up a notch by adding your thoughtful comments to threads or articles. (Note the word thoughtful. Do not troll!) By elevating and furthering the conversation, you’re making a real contribution. Do that often enough, and you’re creating a connection with the original author. Outside of social media, you can also do this by requesting informational interviews with experts in your field. Not everyone will be in a position to accept your request, but those who do will most likely take the request as a compliment. And in most cases, you’ll have a conversation that benefits both of you.
Volunteer
Where is help needed? Maybe it’s in your professional association. Join a committee. Raise your hand to take on a task. Offer to teach. Step up to leadership. You’re not doing this for networking, you’re doing it for the good of the industry. Or maybe it’s within your company but outside your role, especially at a larger organization. Volunteer to do more with the Employee Resource Group you’re part of. Or join the task force that was just created. Any initiative where you can be of service to the larger organization is an opportunity. You’ll get to contribute more, while meeting a wider range of people.
Check In
A simple hello is an effortless way to keep professional friendships warm. Karen Wickre inspired me with this one from her book, Taking the Work out of Networking: An Introvert’s Guide to Making the Connections That Count. A very brief email is all it takes. When an old colleague or friend crosses your mind, just reach out to say you’re thinking of them or share a brief update. Even better, send an article or resource with a brief note: “Saw this and thought you might find it interesting.” The recipient will appreciate being on your radar and you’ve shared something of value.
Connect Others
You are at the center of a web of contacts who could benefit from each other. The trick is to keep the value of connecting them in mind and then offer an introduction. The best super-connectors don’t necessarily have more connections. They are just great at creating relationships and can spot how their connections can help each other. In your conversations with colleagues, keep top-of-mind the question, “Who do I know who could help?”
Simply being generous is the best kind of networking goal. You’re creating good in the world. You’re more likely to take action. And it just feels good. Deepening and expanding your connections in the process is just a side benefit. In the words of Ken Ferrazzi, “The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity.”