Episode summary

Networking. It’s one of those words that can make even the most confident professionals squirm. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, chances are you’ve struggled with it at some point. But what if we told you that networking doesn’t have to feel forced, transactional, or awkward?

In this episode, we’re taking the work out of networking by reframing it entirely. Networking isn’t about working a room or collecting business cards, it’s about building real connections over time. We’ll break down why networking can feel intimidating, why it’s essential, and how you can make it feel natural and authentic.

What we talked about:

- Why networking feels so damn hard, and why you’re not alone if it makes you cringe.

- The biggest networking myths (spoiler: it’s not just for extroverts).

- How to reframe networking as relationship-building over time rather than a one-time transaction.

- The Strength of Weak Ties - why acquaintances, not just close friends, open the most doors.

- A step-by-step guide to networking in different settings:

• Virtual networking (LinkedIn, Slack groups, and webinars)

• In-person events (conferences, industry mixers, and meetups)
• Internal networking (building connections within your workplace)
• Everyday interactions (because networking happens outside of work too)

- The importance of nurturing connections so they don’t fizzle out.

- Specific strategies for introverts to make networking work for them, without the social exhaustion.

- A 7-day Networking Action Plan to help you put these strategies into practice.

Try this: your networking challenge

• Day 1: Identify two people to contact
• Days 2-3: Draft and send your messages
• Days 4-7: Follow up and reflect on the experience

Resources mentioned:⁠

Brad Rushing, Film Courage https://youtu.be/F137IANXaF4?si=X3IhRCnPr3vDUgpJ

The Strength of Weak Ties https://snap.stanford.edu/class/cs224w-readings/granovetter73weakties.pdf

The Strength of Weak Ties - 50 years on https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2023/07/strength-weak-ties

Connect with us

We’d love to hear how you’re making networking work for you! Email us at hello@thisisworkwell.com or share your stories with us on social media. Search for @thisisworkwell on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Next week’s episode: We’re tackling workplace dynamics - from glass ceilings to the pet-to-threat pipeline. It’s going to be a big one!

Final note

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