What words come to mind when you think of networking? Here’s my gut reaction when someone invites me to a networking event: ewwww, fake, uncomfortable, hate it, fear, forgot my elevator speech, panic. Networking gets a bad rap. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
In my profession, as in many, networking is essential. I will stay very small and people will not find me and/or hire me if I don’t meet them, whether it be through a referral, an internet campaign, or (cough, cough) a networking event. As with most things in life, I believe that the way we view networking reflects our relationship to this vital business tool.
So, I have worked hard at reframing my perspective on networking. The evil beast that I once dreaded has become a cuddly stuffed beanie baby, friendly, warm, and inviting. I look at these events as an opportunity to have a new adventure, meet new people, and find out about their lives and what makes them tick. Listening to their elevator speeches gives me a window into their level of self-confidence, how focused and organized and to the point they are. The modulation and strength of their voices can be connected to their inner power. And as I observe others, I filter through what works and doesn’t work in order to learn how I want others to see me.
This morning, I attended a new networking group that began at 7:29 AM and ended at 8:31, precisely on the dot! I was invited by a friend who has been attending for the last few months and loves the group. Meeting her in the parking lot did a lot to calm my fears before walking into a roomful of strangers. And while I stammered a bit when it came my turn to present my 30-second elevator speech, the important thing is that I had the courage to show up. I learned what other small businesspeople are doing to make a living, and even reconnected with my printer who had printed my business cards and invitations many years ago. The most exciting thing that happened, and quite organically, was that I met a wonderful woman who was interested in exploring the possibility of becoming a client. We spoke after the meeting and learned that we had so much in common, including rocky marriages, entrepreneurship and art. I shared a bit about my own personal journey to following my bliss, and she that built credibility. Who knows where it will all lead, the important thing is that I got out of my comfort zone and did something scary today with great success.
So, thank you to my friend Johnna for reaching out to me to invite me to this group. It’s another small step in my career to being a bigger fish in a bigger pond.
What’s your perspective on networking? Any networking horror stories or tips you can share here?
