November
11,
2024
Networking anxiety? It’s not you; it’s…everything.
Ah, networking. It conjures up images of awkward conversations and the occasional LinkedIn request from someone you met for 30 seconds at a conference three years ago.
In theory, we should be pros at connecting by now. Social media, messaging platforms, and endless online groups make it easier than ever, right? Yet, for many, like me, making meaningful connections feels harder.
So, why is networking still such a puzzle? More importantly, why should we bother solving it?
Let’s break down the current networking landscape and look at some ways to navigate it.
Why It’s So Hard
It’s no small feat to meet new people these days. Here are just a few obstacles:
- Digital Overload. Remember when emails were novel and logging onto Facebook was a thrill? Now, we’re barraged by notifications from Slack, Teams, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, etc. The result? A diluted experience. We’re perpetually “connected” but feel completely, unironically disconnected.
- Work-from-Home Culture. Gone are the days when you’d bump into someone in the elevator and spark up a quick chat. Now, it’s all about navigating awkward pauses and frozen screens. Yes, you could meet someone on Zoom, but — even if there are no mute button mishaps or spotty Wi-Fi — digital networking lacks the magic of face-to-face interaction.
- Inauthentic Connections. After some tough years of juggling a global pandemic, political divisiveness, and a tsunami of “influencers,” people are seeking real connection. They are serious about protecting their energy and exhausted by the idea of shallow networking attempts.
- Fear of Vulnerability. Forming close connections requires some level of openness, and people are wary of vulnerability with new acquaintances. Past experiences, especially in an era where online criticism or “cancellation” is common, can make people more protective of their privacy.
Why Networking Still Matters
Why not simply abandon this whole networking thing and fade into algorithmic shadows? Tempting as that is, it’s not a winning strategy. Here’s why:
- Opportunities come through people. Jobs, collaborations, clients — they’re all people-driven, and most of them pop up where you least expect them. That project lead you met at a conference? They may just need your expertise six months from now.
- We learn from others. Networking isn’t just about getting what you want; it’s about learning, growing, and sometimes even changing course because someone’s insights gave you a fresh perspective.
- Connection is healthy. Genuine, effective networking is good for our mental and emotional health. Isolation is real and it’s toxic. We need allies, mentors, and even that person who’ll remind us it’s okay to put “multi-hyphenate creative” on our LinkedIn.
Ideas for Networking
So, how do you navigate this weird, wired world of networking without losing your sanity? Here are a few ideas:
- Try niche groups. Instead of joining every social network group under the sun, focus on one or two groups that align with your interests or goals. That could mean a local coding meet-up or a writers’ group. The more niche, the better! You’ll build deeper connections if you’re all passionate about the same thing.
- Change your approach. Think of it like a game. Don’t approach networking as a main mission (because let’s face it, that’s a lot of pressure, and that’s when things get weird). Instead, lower the stakes. For example, when you go to an event, tweak your goal. Maybe your target could be asking one interesting question to each new person you meet. Maybe you’ll get a laugh out of it and, even better, an instant connection.
- Do it yourself. If you’re intimidated or bored by the networking opportunities in front of you, take control and host something. That way, you can design the experience you want. It could be a Zoom happy hour with a few people in your field or an in-person coffee meeting. Chances are, others are looking for something similar.
- Focus on quality. If you’re the kind of person who’s horrified by the idea of mass introductions, go for quality over quantity. Instead of meeting 50 people in one go, foster one meaningful connection a month. Send a friendly email or message to someone you admire or whose work interests you. No pressure to make it “networking” — think of it as making a friend.
- Use social media in small doses. You don’t have to always be “on.” Follow up with specific people, comment thoughtfully, and engage with purpose. Like a LinkedIn post here; leave an Instagram comment there… It doesn’t have to be much. Consistency and authenticity pay off.
Looking for a Boost?
In 2024, several new and innovative networking apps have emerged, catering to various aspects of professional and personal connections. There’s Bumble Bizz, Lunchclub, Meetup, Timeleft and many, many more.
I recently dabbled in Timeleft, a social app that organizes group dinners for strangers to meet new people and expand their social networks.
I started by filling out a short survey about my interests and hobbies. Then, the app’s algorithm matched me with five other like-minded people for dinner at a local restaurant.
Pulling up to the restaurant, I was apprehensive but hopeful. Once I walked in the door and saw a table of smiling faces, my awkward feelings melted away. My group had similar ages and interests; we shared a dinner full of genuine laughter as we discussed our motivation for joining Timeleft, our families, and our plumbing adventures. I can honestly say it was an absolute delight! We now have a group text chain going and are trying to plan our next dinner.
