How do you network and build meaningful relationships in your field?

Having your own 'why' to network is key. In my experience of networking & co-founding a range of networking communities sometimes the first barrier to get over is the word 'network' itself... So as you explore your 'why' to network, what is a better and more energising word you can claim to get you out there or attend online events more proactively to share who you are & your awesome offers to the world?

One of my favorite ways to network online is to take an online course or program and interact with other students. There is an instant bond because your common interest has brought you to this course. The toughest part of starting a conversation with a stranger is over - you can ask why the person took the course or what they are hoping to get out of it. This short exchange can be the start of a meaningful relationship.

In my experience, direct outreach via "cold messaging" on LinkedIn is a great way to network. Follow these steps: 1. Find people who are where you would like to be in your career in a few years 2. Formulate a specific question you'd like to ask the person, for example, "I am a Ph.D. student doing research on X and I would like to know how you apply X in your job of doing Y." Don't write "I'm a Ph.D. student and your profile looks interesting so I want to talk to you." Show that you did your research! 2. Write a short, to-the-point message asking for a 20-minute informational interview. Don't ramble, keep it brief: introduce yourself, make your ask. 3. If they say yes, stick to the 20 min timeline. 4. Repeat this process with many people.

In my opinion, one of the main mistakes people make when they're networking online is just trying to get "results" right off the bat. They think if they network they'll immediately get a sale or a meeting. But really, it's more about playing the long game. I like to think about how I can be a kind and helpful human online, just like I would if I were networking in person. It's less about pitching and promoting and more about encouraging others, sharing insights, and creating conversation. We all want to feel like relationships are genuine and not transactional, so in order to be successful in online networking, you have to approach them with care, patience, and sincerity. Ask questions, share your lessons, and celebrate when others win!

When networking offline, the goal should not be to attend as many different events as possible. Choose one or two organizations that align with your interests and attend their events as often as possible. You want to continue to show up at the same place so that other people can get to know you and start feeling comfortable with you. Building trust takes time. Showing up once to an event and simply collecting business cards won't lead to a meaningful relationship.

I've found that meeting people and creating an initial connection isn't that difficult. But the real magic comes in maintaining it! An initial follow-up note is a great start. After that, send over an article that reminded you of the conversation you had or ask them how that campaign they talked about turned out. Since so many people don't listen very carefully, you can create powerful connections just by paying attention and following up.

This is such a great question, as humans, we can be adaptive in the rooms we enter on or offline. It is can feel like a glib thing to say networking 'authentically' yet having this as a baseline, non-negotiable purpose when you are networking will aid your sense of integrity and motivation to live and learn from each experience. Only you know what is authentic - so make some time to consider how you want to show up, and how does this link to what you do or offer through a job or course of study. And build in time to include not going if having set up a networking event in your diary you feel in a low energy or vibe space. Giving a gracious, timely cancellation is so much better than getting yourself there but not really being there.

And how do we network authentically if we are introverted or a little shy? Is it okay to talk about it? In my experience, the answer is YES! You can break the ice by being honest: "Hi, I'm Kiki. I'm scared of meeting new people, but I'm doing it anyway!" Chances are good that a number of others in the room feel the same way. Chances are also good you'll meet someone who will relish taking you around for introductions & showing you the ropes. Don't be afraid to be honest! Remember to keep it professional & keep in mind the goals you've set, such as visibility for your organization or connecting with specific contacts.

I know the term "networking" has a slimy reputation for a lot of people. For me, networking is all about being genuine and forming and nurturing relationships. I prefer to take an approach where I am of service to others - without expecting anything in return. If you are networking for the purpose of seeking informational interviews, I've found that if asked (and acknowledge how busy you know the person is), many people are willing to take 30 minutes to chat with you. Handwritten thank you notes or notes of appreciation go a long way. Be real and authentic!

For me my network is very organic, is part of a journey. Tend to your network like a garden i.e. is is ok to change places and spaces you network? Trust your instincts to attend events outside of your past or current interests and/or skillset. I have been to some of the most amazing, thought-provoking networking in tech and cyber 10 years ago which paid off massively in jobs and with coaching clients, I enrolled 5 years later. And if you can see it as a chance to grow, learn and share your awesome self in the world. And take loads of breaks from networking if your heart is not in it...