Often, my coaching clients are encouraged to expand their professional network due to the nature of their job which they realize themselves or a suggestion by their manager. Those who are highest in the “I” dimension of behavior in DiSC® easily make new connections and sustain existing relationships. It’s their polar opposites, those highest in the “C” dimension who are most uncomfortable. Some think it’s unnatural because it seems transactional rather than possibly mutually beneficial, so they avoid networking. When, in reality, they may not realize the benefit to another or think that the benefit needs to be 50-50 when it might be 65-35 or even 80-20 in their favor.
When one sees it as a real opportunity to make a meaningful connection, rather than a phony, opportunistic interaction, it can be less intimidating. If someone isn’t interested in speaking with you, they will end that conversation quickly, but you never know. Consider what you have to offer in a situation, not just what you want to take.
Before meeting someone new, read a little about them or their organization; prepare talking points and/or questions you may ask; not because you want to make a good impression, but because you genuinely want to learn. It’s a subtle difference but can have an outcome you could never have imagined. Finally, don’t try to hide who you are. Be honest — even if that means openly expressing discomfort with the whole networking thing. You may just find that the other person is, too.
“Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” - Michele Jennae