5 Low-Lift Ways to Network That Actually Feel Natural
Gain a retail leader's insights on how kindness, bravery, and authenticity can elevate your networking game
I’ve often been told that no one knows how to network quite like I do. After 20+ years of navigating the networking landscape—through layoffs but always landing on my feet—it’s time to share my insights and strategies. Most of my recent roles have come through networking, and now it’s time to pay it forward. My goal is to both inspire the next generation and offer a fresh perspective to seasoned professionals. Effective networking goes beyond exchanging business cards; it’s about building genuine connections and leaving lasting impressions. Here are five essential tips to elevate your networking game:
1. Be Kind
The most important rule in networking, which I hold dear, is kindness. Although the world may seem vast, your industry is often smaller than it appears. Being polite, friendly, and helpful in every professional interaction is crucial. I learned this early during my first retail job at Old Navy when I was 16. My kindness and connection with a former coworker eventually led to opportunities at Victoria’s Secret and The Gap. You never know who you might encounter again, where they might end up, or who might know someone who could lead you to your next important introduction. A diverse network not only makes life more enjoyable and rewarding but also ensures that consistent kindness fosters positive relationships and paves the way for new opportunities.
2. Be Helpful
Extend your helpfulness beyond the job by connecting with people outside of work. I’m committed to paying it forward through introductions, resume edits, mentoring, and career advice. This kind of support means a lot and has a lasting impact. Arrange coffee, lunch, or after-work drinks, and practice generosity by treating the other person. These simple gestures foster positive relationships and keep your network vibrant.
3. Be Consistent and Follow-Up
I once spent four years diligently following up with a desired employer, understanding that consistency was crucial. I connected on LinkedIn, sent a handwritten thank-you note, and followed up every 4 to 6 months to express my passion for the company. Although the initial job didn’t lead to a full-time offer, I stayed engaged. When a relevant position finally opened up, I reconnected with HR, and the rest is history. The HR representative later shared that she had kept my thank-you note for years. This experience underscored the importance of staying connected and following up regularly—whether through LinkedIn, email, or periodic check-ins. The key takeaway is to remain at the top of one's mind for professional opportunities.
4. Be Brave
Of course, you can keep applying for jobs on LinkedIn, where your resume might get lost in the pile, but that approach often yields limited results. Instead, be brave and try a different strategy for potentially better outcomes. Although putting yourself out there can be intimidating, staying on the sidelines means missing countless opportunities. Moonlighting or freelancing can also open doors. Identify problems people face, develop solutions, and reach out to offer them. This proactive approach not only builds valuable connections but also uncovers opportunities beyond traditional job applications.
5. Be Authentic and Curious
When networking, remember that people want to meet the real YOU, not a carbon copy of a TED Talk speaker. Be yourself—if you’re an introvert, stretch your comfort zone to connect with others, but don’t force a personality that isn’t yours. Be curious: ask questions and show genuine interest in others. Authenticity is key; being genuine will make people appreciate you more, be more receptive to what you have to offer, and be more likely to offer something in return.
Networking is both an art and a science, requiring a blend of strategy and sincerity. By embracing kindness, helpfulness, consistency, bravery, and authenticity, you'll enhance your professional connections and unlock new opportunities and experiences. I'd love to hear from you—what's one networking tip that’s truly made a difference for you?