After 27 long years, I’ve come to the conclusion that - I’m shy. I do a great job at masking it and carrying the extroverted parts of my personality well but most times, I want to crawl away - especially during small talk.
This is why remote work was like God’s gift to me. No commuting, no break room chit chat, no getting lunch with people, no after work events, no literally anything but work. Like that last sentence, the concept sounds good until well, it’s not.
Networking to me is like problem solving. A natural dot connector, I’m always looking for ways to solve problems and meet needs, so, my approach to networking is always “What value can I provide to this person?” If the answer is not much, I typically walk away. We’re about to change that though! Networking is so much more than that. It’s knowledge sharing, building relationships, and expanding connections.
Here are some reminders for myself and others on networking efficiently with resources from our friends at @transformthehustle:
Networking Across
By now we’ve all heard the term networking across - coined by the ultimate put on’er Issa Rae. But, I do think it’s important to network properly so that you're developing genuine relationships and not slutting out your friends for info/knowledge.
Here’s what’s worked for me:
Utilize peer and smaller industry networking events - These events provide an environment already focused on making new connections and allow for more approachable conversations than networking at large-scale industry events. Best practice is to go alone to try to meet someone new.
Collab on joint projects - Working together on a project is a great way to get to know someone professionally while building a meaningful relationship. Additionally, collaborating on projects can highlight your strengths and open up opportunities for further collaboration.
Stay in touch, for real! - Even if it’s just a casual check-in or sharing an interesting meme/article, keeping regular contact helps grow the connection . Show up for people at their shows, events, and personal engagements to continue to enrich relationships and extend IRL support. The bonus is, you’ll likely meet even more people along the way.
Networking up
When people of influence know you, they can advocate for you. The most pivotal moments of my life have been founded on who I was connected to. Networking up may feel weird, but you have to do it.
Do your homework - do your research on the person you want to connect with. Understand their career paths, interests, and the industries they are involved in more deeply and analyze how they may be connected to your journey. This will help you find common ground and also show that you are genuinely interested in getting to know the person.
Be a connector - Truth is, it’s not always about you. Sometimes helping those around you pays off in dividends when it’s your turn to be on the receiving end. This could be as simple as introducing them to someone or sharing resources that can help solve problems. You never know how your good deeds will come back to you.
Join an Employee Resource Group (ERG) - If you work at a corporation, most companies have ERGs that are usually centered around celebrating and supporting identity. Typically these groups are sponsored by senior leadership who share similar interests.
Seeking Mentorship
Mentorship is an area that I struggle with. I had a weird introduction to the concept of mentorship in college and it forever altered my view of a true mentor/ mentee relationship. I’m proud of where I’ve landed in my career now, but I know a mentor will help propel me in unconventional professional areas like: funding and capital, side hustles, career pivots, etc. I’ve never formally asked any one to be my mentor and I’ve never been a part of a formal mentor/mentee program. But that will change! I have a few prospects in mind but I don’t really know how to approach the conversation.
A survey conducted by LinkedIn revealed that 40% of Black professionals believe that mentorship and coaching opportunities could play a pivotal role in fostering a more equitable workplace culture. To make finding a mentor, not only achievable, but worthwhile, here are some key tips:
Make it easy to engage - Simplify things. Use Calendly to make scheduling time with a potential mentor easier. Figure out their preferred method of communication (emails vs LinkedIn DMs). Most importantly, be flexible. Mentorship doesn’t only look one way, so feel empowered to personalize the experience and make it work for the two of you.
Bring yourself and your skills to the table - Use your skills as your upfront value proposition. Consider what you can offer or help with. Just by being in the room or a part of the conversation, the mentorship and advising part will happen naturally. Lastly, remain open to feedback and criticism along the way.
Seek formal mentorship programs - There are many organizations that work with senior level professionals to create mentorship opportunities in their respective industry.
Hot Take! Network down
If you ask me, the kids are alright. They might be chronic oversharers, out of touch with reality, and a little crazy - but they have it figured out. I’m always trying to connect with the generation below me. While they might not be able to get you a top paying job, they are literally the future and they probably know someone who can solve a problem or meet a need.
Between all the apps and the pandemic, we’re all more disconnected than we should be. The next time you see the girl you’ve been chatting with in DM don’t duck each other when you see each other out. Reach out. Connect. Tap in. There is so much abundance and prosperity on the other side of that handshake and genuine conversation.
As I think about the next phase of my career, I know that this era will be a defining moment. I know that the people I meet along the way will be fundamental to my evolution as a professional, and I can’t wait to give back to people that have been a blessing to me and continue to be a blessing to others.
Why? Because I said so
xoxo Amanda
Transform The Hustle is a Black-owned and led cultural consultancy with an aim to increase access and representation for black corporate professionals and independent creators through brand collaborations, job opportunities, philanthropic initiatives, and innovative programming. They focus on creating impactful and inclusive spaces for the community and breaking down barriers that often limit opportunities for Black professionals and independent creators.
Follow Transform The Hustle on Instagram @TransformTheHustle