Maintaining superficial and distant connections

[jakariabd@]

Too often we hear the objection from ROPs that they don’t want to network because they “hate making small talk.” This is fair. Frankly, if all you do is make small talk when meeting new people, it’s a sign that you’re not building a useful network.

Networking is not like playing Pokemon. The goal is not to make as many superficial connections as possible who are unlikely to remember you.

Your network is the people who know you—really know you—and can speak on your behalf and support your career advancement as a training professional. Sometimes this takes the form of proofreading an email; sometimes it’s asking a colleague to help with a project; and sometimes it’s someone who will speak on your behalf for a promotion.

Strong networks are created when people know you greece mobile database and, more importantly, trust you. It’s in those moments when you show vulnerability that you build real connections. If you can’t count on them when you need something, they’re not your network. They’re acquaintances.

Building and maintaining connections as an adult takes time and energy, but it pays dividends in the long run.

Mistake 3: Being everyone's cup of coffee or being open to everything
It may seem counterintuitive that telling people you're "open to anything" when it comes to your career is limiting, but it is. Being specific about what you offer or need will help those you meet remember you and help you. If you're open to anything, they won't know how they can help.