Networking Isn't Hard.

March is Social Work Month and it is one of my favorite months of the year. I often receive requests to sit on panels or provide professional development at conferences. This year, I sat on a panel for Social Work students at the prestigious Tennessee State University. During our conversation, the topic of networking was addressed. We talked about the importance of using LinkedIn and developing relationships with professionals in person. One of the attendees contacted me after the panel and we had a conference call the next day. She shared many of her thoughts, but it was one particular comment that led to the purpose of this post. Networking is scary, but it isn't hard.

There is much more to networking than just having the ability to speak. There are many other components that makes networking not as challenging as it seems. I want to share the two most important things that I have learned over the years about networking and why I believe networking isn't hard. Ready? Let's go!

1. It doesn't require a substantial time commitment. You do not have to schedule an hour to create a relationship. You do not have to state your entire life purpose in 35 seconds to develop a connection. Developing and fostering a relationship only requires a few coordinated and purposeful minutes. You will be surprised the relationship you can create by sharing your interests. The first few minutes sets up the the opportunity for the next time and the next time can change your life.

   What you should consider is that "networking" is not a one time transaction. You should make meaningful transaction on the regular. Let people know how you are doing and inform them of what is happening in your professional life. You will be surprised how people enjoy hearing your success story. Your story can be a creative means of partnership in the future. Nourish your partnership and watch it grow!

   
   

2. Meeting you can be lifetime dream. Have you ever met the person you admired the most in your life? How did you feel during your interaction? I remember meeting one of my non-profit leader role models in Nashville. Although I knew he was friendly and caring individual, I was still star struck and I was in awe when I met him. I have no idea what I said to him. I really wanted to learn more about him and what helped him to become a great leader. I dropped the ball. What I do recall is that he spoke to me and when I see him and remind our degree of separation, he is always delighted and never runs away. Whenever I see him again, I will finally have the courage to ask all my questions because I know he is approachable and is open to having dialogue.

   Students or other professionals may see you as their "Michael Jackson" and you may feel like you are just the regular neighbor next door. Being approachable and engaging in conversation can mean the world for the next _____________.

   For those initiating the conversation, just talk. Don't let the credentials or job titles put fear in your heart. The person you are addressing was once in your shoes. To whose receiving the message, don't forget you were once in the messenger's shoes. Speak life to the individual that is putting it all on the line to talk to you. Create a sense of belonging and make them feel as if they are a valued. The conversation that you invite today can be the origin of the greatest story every told.

   
   

   These two tips may not be the most profound, evidence based tips on networking. However, they are often overlooked when talking about networking. Many people will provide the most advance tips and action steps on how to be the best at networking. You should definitely consider putting those tools in your toolbox. My next statement is the ultimate key to unlocking the door of becoming a master networker if such title exists. Their is dignity in simplicity and authenticity will help you develop the most profound relationships in your professional career.

   
   

   If you are a social work student and want more tips on networking, feel free to reach out to me at justsinglevision@gmail.com.

   
   

   Keep your vision on success and remember....Networking isn't hard.