Isn’t that what networking feels like sometimes – exposing yourself to strangers?! Well, that’s exactly what you’re doing when you network.
But it’s not a bad thing.
It’s actually good to do, and quite legal when done in the parameters of a networking opportunity. It can be struggle if you’re not used to, and it’s easy to find yourself in a situation where you’re wandering the room looking for someone to talk to when everyone else seems to be engaged in a conversation.
And what in the world are you supposed to talk about when you do find an opening?
A friend of mine taught me a little networking game that has helped me when I network. She calls it the 100 Professions Game. Here’s the objective:
1. Make a list of 100 professions in an Excel spreadsheet – it could be anything such as plumbers, electricians, hair stylists, house cleaners, accountants, doctors, website designers, etc.
2. Fill in the professions the best you can with people you already know.
3. Go to networking events and find other people who can help you fill that list where you have some empty spots. It makes a great conversation starter to ask, “So, do you know any good photographers? I’m looking for people that I can use myself and refer to others, and I’m in need a photographer to fill my list.” This way, you’re not talking about yourself (which is not really the point of networking, even though it seems like it should be) but you’re getting valuable new sources, listening to other people, and starting a conversation with a total stranger.
It’s okay to expose yourself to strangers, and you can actually make networking a game. Fill your 100 Professions list so you can be a source for other people as well.
