What to do if you hate Networking
As I sit here, Wellington is absolutely buzzing with every bar full of merrymakers out for their Christmas drinks with colleagues.
But let’s face it: many of us cringe when we think about getting to know our coworkers on a personal level. What if you have been asking for a raise for months – or if you are worried about redundancies? How can you get to know your leadership authentically and professionally without feeling like you are “networking”??
Bleh – even saying that “networking” buzzword leaves me with a funny taste in my mouth. I know for many of my coachees, it’s synonymous with discomfort, forced conversations, and awkward surface-level connections.
So, in the spirit of the holidays – and forced professional fun - here are three SUPER easy tricks to help you make the most of your next professional gathering:
1. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity: The One-Person Challenge
If you feel nervous walking into a room full of “strangers”, set yourself a simple challenge: just talk to one new person. That’s it. Have a nice conversation with one individual, and if you want to leave after that, you’ve already succeeded.
Once deployed - this trick may feel like a life hack: when you break the ice and have that first genuine conversation, you’ll likely find yourself wanting to stay and chat with more people. But if not, that’s okay too—you’ve achieved your goal.
2. Be the MOST Curious
Here is the not-so-secret-sauce…. The best way to form a connection isn’t by talking about yourself!! So shut up already!
Instead, show a genuine interest in others. Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s been a highlight for you this year?” or “What’s your favorite holiday tradition?” Then, really listen.
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
i.e. If you blab on about yourself and all your accomplishments, I reckon the other person might not feel so hot about themselves…. So, take a stab and apply this to your next work event! You may be surprised by the golden nuggets you dig up!
3. Wear a small Conversation Starter
Lastly, if you tend to feel awkward breaking the ice in conversations, put on something festive that stands out— for your holiday party wear a colorful holiday tie, a brooch, or socks with a funky pattern. It’s a simple way to make yourself approachable and gives others something easy to comment on. Or ask others about their items, they will likely have a sweet story to share!
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That’s it from me! I’m off to create my own Christmas party with colleagues from my very first job in New Zealand! #remotelife
In the meantime I would love to know what “networking” tips/tricks have make things a bit easier for you during your career!
