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10 Ways to Network Without The Cringe
Forget the elevator pitch, awkward conversations, and stacks of business cards destined for the garbage can — this is networking that won’t leave you feeling dirty or depleted.
The idea of networking used to make me cringe. Now, I enjoy it.
What changed?
Well… Everything!
Networking for me used to mean attending events that felt forced. Shaking hands and exchanging business cards over catered snacks and the obligatory glass of red or white — while dodging the inevitable creeps in the room and dying a slow and painful death-by-small-talk was the norm. My hope was to make it back to the office with maybe ONE person who I could speak with again about something of value.
It never felt like a good use of my time, and the dynamic was awkward at best. I didn’t like it, and I know I am not alone.
Over the past few years, I stopped thinking about networking as part of a sales cycle and started making connections with the intention to surround myself with great people. This approach changed everything.
I’m into great energy, passionate people, learning from others, and helping where I can.
