I regularly discuss the importance of networking with clients, whether they are hunting for a new job, changing careers, or are business owners. Networking seems so daunting to people, and one of my tips for them is to bring an extroverted friend or colleague to any event, training, meeting, etc., that they attend to help them network. It works like a charm to bring them out of their shell.
Sometimes, just the thought of going to a professional association event, a committee meeting, training sessions, public talk, or any non-business group overwhelms them, even if the event is online. Having a friend or colleague that’s both professional-minded and bold enough to walk up to people and introduce themselves, gives the shy person an edge. They quickly find out the process isn’t so scary after all.
I also love that a recent article pointed out the importance of casual conversations when people are just out running errands and living life. They can be some of the most valuable conversations that lead to 1st and 2nd degree connections you could never have dreamed of, and all because you started a conversation in a grocery store line, doctors’ office, or even the DMV.