Oh, networking. The buzzword of Ted Talks, academia, and career resources everywhere; networking is often touted as the golden ticket to progressing your career. The importance of networking can’t be overstated, but let’s be honest: networking can be, well, awkward.
If you’re someone who feels uncomfortable, unsure or just plain confused when it comes to networking, I have good and bad news for you. The bad news? Networking is a necessity. According to an article from Payscale, some estimate that up to 85% of open jobs are filled through (you guessed it!) networking. The good news? Networking doesn’t have to be awkward, and it isn’t as hard as it may seem!
I’ve gathered 4 articles focused on fun, new and nontraditional networking to help you make authentic connections. Whether you’re a networking newbie or a seasoned pro, these articles will help you boost your prowess – one connection at a time.
The Forbes Communications Council has rounded up 10 great tips to make your networking more successful and meaningful. My favorite tip from this list? Be curious.
I won’t give it all away here, but this article from Inc.com provides a great perspective on how to make your networking more authentic. Spoiler alert – it doesn’t have to happen at a networking event!
*Think* you hate networking? Business Insider offers 8 actionable tips for making networking relationship building easier and more fun. Yes, you heard that right!
Another winner from Inc.com. Opinions on networking events vary, but sometimes they’re unavoidable. Among Patricia Fletcher’s actionable tips for success? Know your ask and do your homework.
Hopefully these articles have inspired you to up your networking game or made the idea of networking seem 
more approachable. Curious about how networking can help you take charge of your career? Check out my previous blog on how SAS’ Joshua Richardson, Associate Information Systems Engineer, leveraged his network to take his career to the next level.
Now it’s your turn - what networking advice do you have to share? Let us know in the comments below!
1 Comment
These are great articles and resources--thanks, Alyssa! Alluded to in some of these is another technique that I appreciate and have found valuable--connect other people together. This presumes you know at least one or two people already, but that's often true. Helping connect people helps start new ways to relate to existing people and also shows you're not just thinking of yourself. It can also be a good excuse to say hi to someone... And you've shown value to others, as well as demonstrating you know something about them and their needs.