Alli Peck argues that networking works better when you stop calling it networking and just think of it as hanging out. Keep an open mind, be kind, and remember that everyone benefits when you actually connect with people instead of working the room.
I hate the term networking. I prefer to call it boozing and schmoozing. Regardless of what we call it, it's very important. So I'm going to tell you the do's and don'ts do. Keep an open mind because you never know who you're going to meet and you never know how you're going to be able to help them in the future or they'll be able to help you do. Be kind to everyone you meet. A lot of these industries that we all work in, whether you're an employee or a business owner, are very incestual. You're likely to see a lot of the same people throughout your career. Don't be afraid to reach out to somebody. I can't tell you how many opportunities are missed because somebody says they're sh. Get over that. Don't underestimate your worth when you meet new people, have a really solid understanding of what you can offer them and what they can offer you. Make it a win win situation. What I like to do is offer to trade. Hey, can I pick your brain for 15 minutes? I'd love to offer you. Whatever. Try it.
Change Your Career Without Leaving Your Job: Podcast Episode with Darcy Eikenberg
