Networking. Probably one of the most polarizing soft skills in the business world. A real love-hate relationship you could say. It comes natural to some and can be energizing, while others just wish they would never have to do it because it drains their social batteries and increases their anxiety. Many swear by it and encourage to use every opportunity we get to grow our network. But do we really need it to have a successful career?
To me the question here is more one about perspective. But let me share some of my insights on what I learned about networking from our recent Summer Summit collaboration between the Business Women’s Network and SAP Women in Tech. A few weeks ago, we organized our first ever joined Summer Summit on-site in Walldorf. A little bit late for a summer summit in September, some might say, but we had the sun gracing us with one of those last warm days this year. We were lucky enough to have Traci Hughes present us with a short keynote on the topic of (you probably guessed it): Networking. And while at first people were expecting some encouraging words to please start networking because it is career essential, Traci managed to find a slightly more nuanced perspective on the topic.
Let me sum up the most important things I learned from that evening. Being an outgoing person myself, I am of course not as aware of all the aspects. But even I have encountered events and situations where I just could not bring myself to talk to another stranger, or a semi-acquaintance and discuss the current weather conditions because it felt incredibly draining.
The bad news first: networking really can be helpful in your professional development.
However, it might be a relief for some that when it comes to networking, quality can weigh a lot more than quantity. Which means fostering or working on good connections can be more helpful than just having plenty without really knowing someone.
Something I also learned about networking is that it kind of works like a garden. Meaning it grows over time and harvesting the fruits of your networking can take quite a while. Personally, I still feel like I am waiting for that bountiful harvest 😉 but you never know, right?
Lastly, I think it is important to control that pressure we are putting on ourselves to constantly perform our best social skills or come up with the most entertaining anecdote and topic to talk to someone. In a nutshell: being someone we are not. And if you benefit from good quality networks that are none superficial, doesn’t trying to be someone else counterfeit that purpose? Meaning, be yourself. And if that means you won’t talk to 10 new people at every given opportunity, I think that’s absolutely justified behavior.
Because the really good conversations that help you in your professional development are those that feel authentically you. And let me tell you: those conversations, we have had plenty of at our Summer Event. 😊
At long last I want to encourage all readers to look for those authentic conversations that will grow your network. And yes, you might have to nudge yourself a little bit outside of your comfort zone at times. Yes, there will certainly be those awkward moments around new people, but I don’t think anyone has ever grown without being a little uncomfortable throughout the process. Do you?
P.S. Feel free to share some of your awkward networking stories with the community!!
