I recently read Liz Lynch’s new book, Smart Networking: Attract a Following in Person and Online. The book is chock full of tips for gaining a comfort level with networking, expanding your reach, building your brand, and just having fun with the process. Liz’s recommendations are always authentic and respectful of the individual’s comfort zone and she suggests strategies that really work. Here are a few of her networking truths that can help job seekers move past the negative self talk that sometimes surrounds the concept of networking.

1. “If you are not inspired by the people around you, go meet some new people.” Frequently reluctant networkers claim that they don’t know anyone who can help them in their search. This usually translates into “I haven’t asked for help” or “I’m embarrassed to ask for help” or “I don’t want to be a burden to people.” People can’t provide inspiration for you until they know what you need. Even if you think that there is no way your friend can help you, they may be connected to others who can help you. It never hurts to ask.
2. “The worst thing about networking is the word itself.” Networking has gotten a bad name because some people are disingenuous in their networking efforts. Some people only give to get rather than give for the sake of giving and others ignore their network until they need a favor. Networking is about reciprocity and continuous information sharing that is mutually beneficial. It’s not about slick salesmanship or empty promises.
3. “If you can’t find a networking activity to suit your needs, you’re not looking hard enough.” Frequently when I talk to people about their networking contacts their response is “I don’t know anybody.” But once I probe them on this, they quickly discover that they do know many people. The key is to explore all possible affinity groups developed through work, school, professional associations, sports,  religion, community, etc. Think about what you do in your spare time and how you connect with people. Do you meet others through your children’s school, your church, the dog run in your neighborhood, a hockey team, a runners club, church, or a book club? If you feel that your ties to others are weak, think about what you are passionate about and join a group that allows you to connect with others who feel the same way. Everyone in a group is connected by a common interest. The common interest propels friendship. The friendship drives trust. Once trust is established, you can start reaching out to these contacts for information that might be relevant to your job search. People will be willing to share information because you have already established value in the relationship.
4. “We’ll all be better if we help others be better.” Helping others is just the right thing to do and what goes around comes around. The person that you help with a computer glitch, a business problem, or a family crisis will remember your graciousness and be more likely to help you in the future. 

What strategies have you used to grow your network? Feel free to share your thoughts here.