Summer is the Perfect Time to Network
The radiant sunshine of summertime keeps drawing me outdoors and connecting with others.
The warm weather and easygoing schedules make summer a favorite time for workshops, concerts, and other social gatherings.
In other words, it’s also the perfect time to activate your personal network.
Did you just scrunch up your nose at me? Let me explain!
And let’s begin by widening your idea of your “network.”
When people hear “network,” they usually think of work colleagues, clients, and business connections – people we see less of in the summer.
But remember: Your network also includes your friends, family, and neighbors.
And this is great news. These are the people who know you best.
>>They love you.
>>They’re proud of you.
>>They’re rooting for you.
Your friends, family, and neighbors are the ones most likely to speak up and say your name in a room full of opportunities.
So, yes, go ahead and use these natural summer gatherings to let them know what you’re up to! You never know what may come of it.
They may even use these summer gatherings to introduce you to some new people. (As an introvert, I have long believed that meeting “friends of friends” in casual settings is quite likely THE most natural way to expand your career network.)
My #1 Personal “Networking” Tip
If you really want to make the most of these new interactions, begin by taking the pressure off yourself. You don’t need to “sell yourself” or prepare some pitch that you deliver awkwardly.
Instead, my guidance is this: Look for ways to help them.
Authentic networking isn’t about finding out what they can do for you. It’s about discovering how you can help them and then doing it.
Because when you advocate for others, you inherently learn to advocate for yourself.
So, let go of the pressure and nerves. Tell people what you’re doing, be as helpful as possible, and just have fun!
The 5 Minutes To Flourish Summer Series
Did you know that you can listen to the summer podcast episodes during the time it takes to weed a small garden patch? Yep! All you need is 5 minutes.
So, if you’d like to elevate professional growth with in-person gatherings this summer, the July 10th episode, “Strategies for Attending In-Person Events,” is perfect for you. You could even tune in on your way to the next cookout!
Job Search Accelerator Toolkit
You probably know this already, but the job search process is changing fast. That’s why I’ve curated the Job Search Accelerator toolkit—to help you navigate the modern market.
This collection of carefully curated resources (networking strategies, expert tips, informative audio lessons, articles, resource guides, etc.) is hand-picked to help you refresh your job search strategy for the modern market.
The Gardener’s Glove
A Monthly Newsletter
Want more career wisdom? Check out these podcast episodes/blog posts!
+Elevate Your Career: Strategies for Attending In-Person Events
+Tiny Actions, Big Results: 5 Minutes to Flourish
+Fall Back in Love With Your Career
For more insider stories, quick tips, and #CareerTalk, I invite you to connect with me on Instagram @flourish.careers.
