how not to be boring, or bored, while networking

"Hey, I remember you! We met at the Creative Fireballs conference last year, and we talked about the weather for 20 minutes!"

 ~ Said no one. Ever.

We all want to be remembered. But we don’t want to be remembered for being boring.

We all want to have interesting, engaging conversations. But we worry we’ll have to endure superficial small talk instead.

Yes, bad networking can happen to good people … but it doesn’t have to. Forget about relying on boring blah blah - because people will forget it. And use these three concepts to transform your attitude, your approach, and your networking experiences.

1. ❤️‍🔥 Networking IS NOT about superficial small talk.

Small talk does not mean superficial by definition. Small talk can be substantive, interesting, and lead to big opportunities. A quick comment about the weather is a low-stress, appropriate conversation starter. But it's where you go from there that matters.

If you tell me that you love snow because you're a snowboarder ... you're sharing something interesting, personal, and appropriate for any event.

If I reply that I don't snowboard, but I like cross-country skiing, and I take figure skating lessons at Chelsea Piers, I'm responding and sharing my own stories.

We're breaking the ice, melting the tension, and warming up the connection between us. And having a little fun with weather analogies.

Because networking can and should be fun.

Networking can move conversations between "what do you do for fun",  and "what do you do for work"; it can help us get to know each other on many levels.

2. ❤️‍🔥 Networking IS NOT sales. 

Networking IS about building strategic, authentic relationships - to fulfill mutual goals. It is meant to be both relational and transactional. Networking is a way to learn, teach, influence, and connect. It is an essential tool for expanding our professional opportunities, and our social circles. And when you know how to navigate these human interactions, networking can and should be less stressful, more effective, and more enjoyable.

3. ❤️‍🔥 Networking IS NOT about impressing people; IT IS about connecting with people.

So take a deep breath and remember that everyone has fears and dreams, different yet equal. Leave the slick sales pitches for your marketing materials, and stop rehearsing the ‘perfect’ ice breaker. Start listening and responding in the moment. Pay attention to what people say; use conversations to learn about your differences and embrace the things you have in common. When you talk about your own life and work, and share authentic stories, you’ll find your networking experiences can be truly deep and meaningful.

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