Yes! You Do Need To Network.

Networking is a business necessity. I help my clients flex their networking muscles, even though it is tough. They hate networking--and I even have to make myself network. So let's just bag it, OK? Not so fast...

Networking is how things get done. We find most of our jobs and earn new business through networking. Our personal influence also depends on networking.

When I ask why my clients aren't networking, here are the excuses they offer:

1. I don’t want to bother anyone.

2. Networking feels self-serving.

3. I don’t know who to reach out to.

4. I’m an introvert.

5. My work should speak for itself.

These excuses resonant with me - because they're also my excuses. But, the real reason I don't like to network is that I fear rejection. I don’t want to reach out and be rebuffed. I don't want to be told "no" or to send an introductory email that gets ignored. The excuses above protect me from potential rejection.

But, these same excuses also keep me from connecting with experts who are willing to happily share what they know. If I don't network, I don't meet leaders who might need my services.

I know that my clients have often found new jobs because they reached out and networked--and these jobs were not even posted.

Sure, when networking I run the risk of hearing crickets or even a firm "no." But networking also opens doors, builds relationships, and creates new opportunities.
 

There are many approaches to networking. A few minutes of reading the articles below will give you the tools, encouragement, and strategies to make the necessary task of networking more accessible.

• The Networking Tactic That Will Get You a Meeting With Anyone
  “It’s who you know, not what you know.”
  The worst catchphrase in business history. But it’s never been more true. That’s the scary part. Read more.
  

• Learn to Love Networking
  “I hate networking.” We hear this all the time from executives, other professionals, and MBA students. They tell us that networking makes them feel uncomfortable and phony—even dirty. Although some people have a natural passion for it—namely, the extroverts who love and thrive on social interaction—many understandably see it as brown-nosing, exploitative, and inauthentic. Read more
  

• Tips for Getting Better Results when Networking
  I recently embarked into the world of networking, and so far, I haven’t cut off my hands in rage. Are you surprised? Only kidding. I think there is a lot of untrue statements said about networking. It can be difficult and time-consuming but in no way is it a waste of time or pointless activity. Read the rest of the article.
  

• The Awkward Person's Guide to Networking
  You’re probably accustomed to hearing about the value of networking. Whether it takes place online or in person, research shows a variety of career benefits come from developing and engaging your network: higher salary and career satisfaction, as well as a greater likelihood of promotions. Want to learn more?

Need networking examples? I network by offering content or leading programs where I can support organizations or meet new people.

Here's how I've networked so far in September:

• Asila Calhoun and I offered a 75-minute Unmasking Imposter Syndrome for 60 Parks and Recreation Professional Women as part of Dale Smith's LeadHERship annual conference.

• I launched the Professional Women's Group, a combination book club and coaching program for 5 amazing women.

• Asila Calhoun and I presented a 90-minute webinar, Unmasking Imposter Syndrome attended by 30 Professional Coaches through ICF Raleigh.