The Lazy Girl Series: Your Passport to Easier Living
If this is your first foray into the Lazy Girl series on SheThrives, let's get you acquainted. This series offers hacks, tips, and straightforward advice designed to make your life simpler and more manageable, without sacrificing quality. Because let's be honest, who has the time or energy for complex solutions?
Why Networking Seems Hard (But Isn't)
Networking can often feel like a chore, especially if you equate it with forced conversations, awkward meetups, and doling out business cards like Halloween candy. But it doesn't have to be that way. Networking is not about 'working' a room; it's about forming genuine relationships that can help both parties grow. And guess what? You can do it without breaking a sweat.
Easy Peasy Tips to Start Networking
Virtual Coffee Dates
Who says you have to go to a business mixer to network? Schedule virtual coffee dates with people you'd like to know better. You'd be amazed how open people are to this—it cuts the commute and keeps things casual.
Social Media: Use it Wisely
LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and industry-specific platforms offer a goldmine of opportunities. Don't just scroll aimlessly; engage in meaningful conversations. A well-timed comment on someone's post can often open a dialogue and, who knows, lead to opportunities down the line.
Your Existing Network: Don’t Overlook It
You probably already have a network; you just haven't thought of them in that way. Old colleagues, college friends, even family members can all be part of your network. Reach out, catch up, and let them naturally evolve into professional relationships.
Networking Through Shared Interests
Ever met someone at a yoga class or a painting workshop and found that you clicked professionally? Shared hobbies are a laid-back setting to forge connections that can benefit you in the workplace as well.
Online Groups and Communities
The internet is brimming with forums, LinkedIn groups, and online communities that you can join from the comfort of your couch. You can pose questions, share insights, and gradually establish yourself as someone worth knowing, all while wearing your pyjamas.
Creating a Networking Routine
Set aside just 20 minutes each week for networking tasks. It could be sending out a couple of LinkedIn invites, or following up on emails. Small steps, when done consistently, yield big results.
Elevator Pitch: Keep it Handy
Craft a compelling yet concise elevator pitch for yourself. A couple of sentences that sum up who you are and what you do can often pique interest and open doors.
Be Authentic, Not Transactional
Networking shouldn't be about accumulating contacts; it should be about building authentic relationships. Authenticity resonates with people and makes you memorable.
Opportunities Are Closer Than You Think
Remember, not all networking has to be outward. There might be potential opportunities within your current organisation. Casual chats with colleagues in different departments can often lead to insights or even internal referrals.
Yes, networking can land you your next job or client, but its benefits extend far beyond that. Networking can also provide you with mentorship opportunities, broaden your perspective, and even forge friendships. In essence, it contributes to your overall personal growth, not just your professional ascent.
Further Reading
If you’re interested in taking your networking game to the next level, consider reading Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. It offers invaluable insights into building lasting relationships.
Your Network Awaits!
Networking doesn't have to be hard work. By integrating simple, effective strategies into your daily routine, you can build and maintain a robust network without feeling overwhelmed. There's a whole world of opportunities out there, just waiting for you to seize them. So why wait? Get started, Lazy Girl style.