We live in a time where convenience is king and all that we could possibly need is available at our fingertips. With a few quick keystrokes we can order food, apply for a job or become a friend. The wonder of the Internet has enabled us to find information about almost any subject. Even with all this digital power, we need much more to feel complete. We need in-person human interaction.
To land a new job, make a new (real) friend, or find a new customer, we must build relationships. Networking is one of the most powerful ways to build relationships. Many people aren’t comfortable in networking situations but that is likely because they don’t get enough practice. We are often uncomfortable networking because we feel the need to act differently than we normally do. One of the keys to effective networking is to be genuine. Behave like yourself, not a pumped-up facsimile trying to be something you’re not. Continue Reading