That feeling.  The stage fright, anxiety, rapid pulse, awkward sweat situation.  You have to go talk to people.

The people themselves aren't scary. It's the networking aspect.  What does it mean to "network" anyway, and how do you just START networking?

It's a lot.  It's overwhelming.  So today, I'm going to walk you through why networking can be a powerful tool and the seven things that I use to calm my anxiety so I can show up powerfully and be present while I'm networking with new people.

But First...

Take a deep breath.  Let your stomach get back up to it's place.  You're absolutely not alone in this feeling.  15 million Americans have social anxiety.  That's practically all of New York, LA and Chicago.  Could you imagine if those entire cities all clammed up all at once? It surely would make it interesting for Hollywood!

Why do I have to do it?

Networking is a crucial skill to learn.  We spend some time on it in our Get Promoted digital course.  The reason it's so important is that the job market is not getting any less competitive.  Networking allows you to make connections that will bring your resume and application to the top of the pile, and possibly even with a personal referral.  Given how much time recruiters spend looking (or not looking) at your resume, having an internal connection is clutch to landing your next role.

It also allows you the opportunity to give back to the collective whole.  I don't know about you, but when I give back, when I act in service, it fills my heart and cup in a way that nothing else could.  It also takes the pressure off of the awkward conversation because it puts you in the motion of DOING something.  Your brain goes into muscle memory, and you get a chance to stop overthinking every move.

Now that we have gotten that out of the way, let's talk about what you can do to be a more effective networker.  If you have a plan to follow, that should help take the nerves off!

One last note...

Get out there and do it.  It's never going to get easier if you don't start.

If you're looking for more support, this topic is something we work on in our Signature Coaching Package.  Book your free session and let's get you moving towards your goals.