How do you network strategically and authentically without being pushy or salesy?

Let's first get over the idea that networking is unimportant or dare I say sleazy! Start with your most inner trusted circle before you start branching out, as this will allow you to figure out how to navigate networking in a way that feels authentic and productive. Then you have to consistently allocate time to networking, which can be a tough challenge. Find a community or network group that will allow you to regularly interact and networking while also helping you develop your skills. Strategic networking is truly about the art of giving to others, so understanding ways that you can offer help and be willing to do so is vital.

It's ok to want something from networking, that's why we are doing it. Even the people that decide to network with you want something! You need to know your goals but then show up authentically with curiosity towards what that person might know to help you towards your goals, not what they can give you. View networking opportunities as a way to showcase your values, goals, and then hear what the other person has to say.

Networking is just a conversation. You need to be true to yourself and listen to the other person as they speak. This will help with information that you are going to provide as a response. This may be a business or personal response. If you make the conversations all about you then you will miss the opportunity for an opportunity.

Get specific about high level traits; industry, age, experience, company, etc, and then go broad into that category. Usually you want to network with people that are one to two levels up from where you are. Any more than that and it stops being that helpful. Once you start meeting people you'll learn things about the industry that you didn't know, and about yourself, that will nudge you to be more specific in your outreach.

A lot of people hate the concept of networking because it feels delve-serving, and while yes, you may have a goal, you can go about it in a way that’s genuine, relational, and doesn’t feel icky. First, net work when you don’t need to. Building relationships when you really don’t need, some thing out of them, will feel better, and you can support others in their professional development. If you’re networking as part of a job, search, be authentic and have true interest in getting to know people. Think of it like dating. You don’t go straight to the ring on the first date, so don’t dive right in and ask for help with an application in your first message! Show you see them as a human and get to know them first!

Building trust and rapport when networking is as simple as being open, curious, positive, non-judgmental, lean into them when they are speaking (they are the most important person in the conversation), and then follow-up with what they share with you. Basically, prove to them that you care and value their time.

Reliability is built from following up and following through. It's one of the most often missed steps in networking, and can be the reason why someone remembers you or doesn't. Show them you care, listened, valued, and respected them by showing up after your conversation.

Do whatever you need to do in order to stay top of mind with your network that works for you. Calendar reminders, auto holiday card or annual update cards, boomerang in GMail, etc. Make it easy to nurture and grow your relationships and they will help nurture and grow your career.