Career Corner: Don't Work Without a Net(work)
Networking tips from Christina Burton, associate director of Alumnae/i Career Services.
“Well, that was awkward!” Not surprisingly, many people walk away from networking interactions with similar reactions. Starting a conversation with a complete stranger can be panic-inducing for some, but research consistently shows that who you know makes a big difference when pursuing new career opportunities. So, how can you build your network even if you aren’t a social butterfly? Check out the tips below for some unconventional ways to approach the task.
1. Recruit a friend
Bringing a trusted friend to a networking event can help give you the courage and support to approach a new potential colleague; if things don’t work out as expected, it’ll be easier to recover and pursue the next interaction.
2. Organize activities that cultivate socializing
If you’re hosting a networking event, or looking for one to attend, identify spaces and activities conducive to fun. Activity gets us out of our heads and into a flow. Try organizing a putt-putt golf event or a fun icebreaker to group participants around common likes or dislikes (e.g., find four people who watched The Office series at least twice).
3. Set a personal networking goal
Most of us are driven by achieving the goals we set. Consider setting a goal, such as initiating conversation with four people before you leave a networking event, and create an incentive that motivates you (“After I talk to four people, I’ll pick up ice cream from my favorite shop”).
Sounds doable, right? Try it out and let us know how it goes. Happy networking, Mawrters!
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Need help navigating the world of work? You can reach Christina Burton, Bryn Mawr’s new associate director of Alumnae/i Career Services, at cburton@ brynmawr.edu. Please keep your questions succinct.