The Network of Networking

How to meet and connect with people... the real way

What even is networking anymore?

Words like network, connect and follow all have a different meaning now than they did ten years ago. The word network may make you think of your online presence, connect associated with LinkedIn and follow tied to twitter. But what about the initial definition of the word?

I believe that restoring the lost art of the basics are the key to creating a true and meaningful network. By reevaluating how you perceive your fundamental connections, you will then be able to network more efficiently and in a way that sets you apart from your competitors.

Network like you mean it

As a college student and aspiring young professional, you are constantly being told that it is ALL about your network and how you create it. This task seems daunting now more than ever. People don’t know where to start or what platform of media to reach out on. We tend to perceive it as a very complicated process, when in fact networking can be quite simple.

Ask yourself these questions:

“What is my goal in connecting with this person?”

“Do I have something to offer them?”

If your answers to these two questions reflect wanting to make initial contact and letting them know that you have an interest in what they are doing, don’t make it harder on yourself - just reach out!

Adding them on media platforms is great and all, but I challenge you to take it a step further. Write them a handwritten note expressing your interest. Doing this will certainly demonstrate your authenticity and showcase that you are genuine and professional in your pursuits. You will leave a lasting impression that will continue to strengthen your network.

Connect for real

Usually from the first conversation you have with a person you can tell if you connect with them or not. The best way to make an impression on someone you are intending to spark conversation with is to do it with sincerity and intention.

If you have false intent, don’t even bother approaching the person. People can tell when your motives aren’t real. Life is too short to do anything without meaning behind it anyway, so spare yourself the waste of time.

When you have established that you truly want to advance a conversation with someone, once again, make it simple. Shake their hand. Make eye contact. Take a real interest in the discussion. These simple cues of connection are becoming rare, so if you have them you will be noticed.

Follow and then Lead

Following someone you admire on social media can’t count as truly following them. It is a start, but it will not bring you to the finish. To honestly follow someone, you must first network, connect and then actively engage. In other words, show up. If they are speaking at an event, show up. If they write a book, buy it and then show up at a book signing. If they ask for your assistance, show up and rise to the occasion. Doing this will demonstrate how serious you believe in their mission. In return, you will almost always be rewarded and asked to play a larger role in that person’s life.

A big part of being a follower is being able to transfer those skills into being a leader. Being able to connect the two is essential. Taking all of the lessons you have learned from following someone you admire and forming them into parts of how you want to direct your path will attract followers of your own.

Reach out to your old pal- the basics

Rekindling the basics feels like catching up with an old friend, so don't be afraid to try it. Let it guide you through a healthy, sustainable and purpose driven cycle:

Network, connect, follow, lead.