Step 12 to a Portable Career – Building, Nourishing and Expanding your Network

The other day I was chatting with a client who is just getting started on a new Portable Career Path. She is completely committed and so excited about the possibilities ahead! I could feel her enthusiasm about all aspects of her journey, save for one.

The one thing giving her pause?

Networking. Or as she put it, “schmoozing.”

This word that can strike fear in the heart of even the most self-assured person. It’s not easy to put yourself out there, especially when you feel out of your element and are beginning something new.

But I can tell you, it’s one of the most crucial stepping stones to creating the career of your dreams and getting a foot in the door.

If you’re feeling hesitant or nervous about networking, start small. Ask friends to introduce you to any of their contacts on LinkedIn or Facebook who fit in with your career aims. This is an easy, low-risk way to start putting names (and job titles) with faces.

From there, challenge yourself to attend in-person networking events! Go in with the mindset that you have nothing to lose, and be prepared to talk about your passions and exactly what you’re looking for. It’s normal to feel uncomfortable about this at first. Just remember, it’s not about being pushy – it’s about being confident.

I promise you, the more you interact with other professionals, the easier it will become…and then one day YOU will be one of the people in your field that newcomers seek out.

Schmoozing doesn’t have to be a bad word. Using your time wisely in this way to nourish and expand your contacts will help guide you towards your ultimate goal. You may even find that you’re enjoying yourself!

Think of networking as a sharing of enthusiasm with like-minded people. That’s really all it is!

And one of my favorite tricks is to take YOURSELF out of the equation and go into service mode. Network without the end goal of “sale” or “job” in mind.

• Go to find out how you can help and serve?
• Go to find potential friends and partners.
• Go to simply skill up and learn about your industry.

When you network with that kind of mindset, the outcomes you want are a given.

What ways have you tried to build your network recently? I’d love to hear your ideas!