9 answers
Carolina
Student
Hialeah Gardens, Florida
1
Question
Updated
682 views
How do you balance networking without seeming one-sided #Fall24?
In other words how do you form a valuable connection with someone that you can both benefit from? I find it hard to message people I don't know on LinkedIn for help. #Fall24
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9 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1903
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Carolina !
Thanks for being here and expressing what is on your mind. I think I can provide some advice that hopefully could enhance your networking endeavors.
You've brought up a very good point. It does seem hard to "connect" with people online, especially people who do not know you to begin with. This is why I have always done my networking in person, regardless of the convenience or ease of doing it online. You very well can do the same and I think that you will see that the difference will make it seem more memorable, immediate and three dimensional, allowing your personality to win new friends and colleagues.
The first suggestion that I have which is really fun is to attend as many Job Fairs near you as possible. It is a great opportunity to meet and speak with people in the fields you are interested in. You can also seek out organizations, unions, groups and communities in your area for the type of work you like. You can easily find these by doing an internet search online or visiting your local Public Library or Chamber of Commerce. These groups sometimes have on site events or parties or Meet and Greets that you can attend. Being face to face works wonders. It's quite disappointing to e-mail people or DM and not receive a response.
Consider forming your own Networking Group for the field of work that you're pursuing. The group will provide a chance to meet the other professionals in your field, exchange information about the field and air any concerns about jobs or the field of work you're all in. The internet is convenient for many things, but I also feel such as you've mentioned, not for meeting people and it has a lacking element for professional elements compared to doing everything in person. I am an Actress and had to learn Zoom, act and audition through my computer's camera and phone camera and it just seemed strange to me at first, but we must adapt to these types of changes.
I hope this is a bit of help and that you can start meeting some people who in turn will be fortunate to know you !
Thanks for being here and expressing what is on your mind. I think I can provide some advice that hopefully could enhance your networking endeavors.
You've brought up a very good point. It does seem hard to "connect" with people online, especially people who do not know you to begin with. This is why I have always done my networking in person, regardless of the convenience or ease of doing it online. You very well can do the same and I think that you will see that the difference will make it seem more memorable, immediate and three dimensional, allowing your personality to win new friends and colleagues.
The first suggestion that I have which is really fun is to attend as many Job Fairs near you as possible. It is a great opportunity to meet and speak with people in the fields you are interested in. You can also seek out organizations, unions, groups and communities in your area for the type of work you like. You can easily find these by doing an internet search online or visiting your local Public Library or Chamber of Commerce. These groups sometimes have on site events or parties or Meet and Greets that you can attend. Being face to face works wonders. It's quite disappointing to e-mail people or DM and not receive a response.
Consider forming your own Networking Group for the field of work that you're pursuing. The group will provide a chance to meet the other professionals in your field, exchange information about the field and air any concerns about jobs or the field of work you're all in. The internet is convenient for many things, but I also feel such as you've mentioned, not for meeting people and it has a lacking element for professional elements compared to doing everything in person. I am an Actress and had to learn Zoom, act and audition through my computer's camera and phone camera and it just seemed strange to me at first, but we must adapt to these types of changes.
I hope this is a bit of help and that you can start meeting some people who in turn will be fortunate to know you !
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
85
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hello Carolina, trust you are fine 😊
It's great to know that you're thinking about genuine connection-building. Networking shouldn't feel one-sided or transactional.
Here's how to form valuable, mutually beneficial relationships:
🐝Before Reaching Out On LinkedIn, You Should 👇🏽
💈🫴🏽Research potential connections: Share interests, industries, or experiences.
💈🫴🏽Define your goals: Clarify what you hope to learn or achieve.
🐝Initial Message Tips (LinkedIn or Email)👇🏽
💈🫴🏽Personalize: Address by name, mention a specific achievement or post.
💈🫴🏽Be concise: Briefly introduce yourself and your interests.
💈🫴🏽Show value: Share relevant insights, articles, or experiences.
💈🫴🏽Ask open-ended questions: Encourage meaningful conversations.
Check Out This Sample Message👇🏽
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
Hi (Name of your prospective network)
I'm (Your Name(of course your name will show if on LinkedIn)) a (Your Profession/Student) interested in (Mention Your Industry/Field). Your work on (Specific Project/Topic) resonates with me. I'd love to learn more about your experiences and insights.
Would you be open to a brief chat or advice on (Mention The Specific Area)?
Best regards,
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
🎉When Building Connection👇🏽
💎Listen actively: Engage with their thoughts and experiences.
💎Offer assistance: Share relevant resources or expertise.
💎Follow up: Check in periodically to maintain the connection.
💎Be patient: Relationships develop over time.
🫴🏽Valuable Connection Signs To Look Out For👇🏽
🧩Meaningful conversations
🧩Mutual support
🧩Shared knowledge
🧩Genuine interest
To Overcome Message Anxiety (In Case It Arises)👇🏽
🫶Start small: Reach out to alumni or peers.
🫶Focus on shared interests: Common ground helps break the ice.
🫶Be authentic: Your sincerity will shine through.
Carolina, remember🤔that networking is about building genuine relationships, not collecting contacts!
You're taking the first step by being thoughtful and considerate. Keep shining✨✨✨
It's great to know that you're thinking about genuine connection-building. Networking shouldn't feel one-sided or transactional.
Here's how to form valuable, mutually beneficial relationships:
🐝Before Reaching Out On LinkedIn, You Should 👇🏽
💈🫴🏽Research potential connections: Share interests, industries, or experiences.
💈🫴🏽Define your goals: Clarify what you hope to learn or achieve.
🐝Initial Message Tips (LinkedIn or Email)👇🏽
💈🫴🏽Personalize: Address by name, mention a specific achievement or post.
💈🫴🏽Be concise: Briefly introduce yourself and your interests.
💈🫴🏽Show value: Share relevant insights, articles, or experiences.
💈🫴🏽Ask open-ended questions: Encourage meaningful conversations.
Check Out This Sample Message👇🏽
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
Hi (Name of your prospective network)
I'm (Your Name(of course your name will show if on LinkedIn)) a (Your Profession/Student) interested in (Mention Your Industry/Field). Your work on (Specific Project/Topic) resonates with me. I'd love to learn more about your experiences and insights.
Would you be open to a brief chat or advice on (Mention The Specific Area)?
Best regards,
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
🎉When Building Connection👇🏽
💎Listen actively: Engage with their thoughts and experiences.
💎Offer assistance: Share relevant resources or expertise.
💎Follow up: Check in periodically to maintain the connection.
💎Be patient: Relationships develop over time.
🫴🏽Valuable Connection Signs To Look Out For👇🏽
🧩Meaningful conversations
🧩Mutual support
🧩Shared knowledge
🧩Genuine interest
To Overcome Message Anxiety (In Case It Arises)👇🏽
🫶Start small: Reach out to alumni or peers.
🫶Focus on shared interests: Common ground helps break the ice.
🫶Be authentic: Your sincerity will shine through.
Carolina, remember🤔that networking is about building genuine relationships, not collecting contacts!
You're taking the first step by being thoughtful and considerate. Keep shining✨✨✨
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
351
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Carolina - you are already ahead of many people by recognizing that networking should be two-sided. You have gotten excellent advice; here are some additional thoughts:
- Try to avoid cold contacts. If you want to know more about Company A, see if you know someone who knows someone there. They could make an introduction via LinkedIn, explaining why they are doing so.
- Do something for them in your first contact, such as compliment one of their posts or ask a question about it. In that way, they are already familiar with you when you ask for help.
- Once you have made a connection, keep it up by periodically sending them an article related to their job or interests or a quick note for a holiday.
- Think about what you know that might help them. For example, you might know tips about social media or technology that would help them. There is even a term - reverse mentoring - for this.
- Know that building a network takes time so don't be discouraged. Also know that some people you contact will not be interested in connecting with you. Sometimes people don't click, but more likely they are just busy or dealing with something else in their lives.
I have links to other tips below. Good luck!
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-network-for-a-job
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-effectively-network-job-while-you-remote-maggie-bedrosian/
- Try to avoid cold contacts. If you want to know more about Company A, see if you know someone who knows someone there. They could make an introduction via LinkedIn, explaining why they are doing so.
- Do something for them in your first contact, such as compliment one of their posts or ask a question about it. In that way, they are already familiar with you when you ask for help.
- Once you have made a connection, keep it up by periodically sending them an article related to their job or interests or a quick note for a holiday.
- Think about what you know that might help them. For example, you might know tips about social media or technology that would help them. There is even a term - reverse mentoring - for this.
- Know that building a network takes time so don't be discouraged. Also know that some people you contact will not be interested in connecting with you. Sometimes people don't click, but more likely they are just busy or dealing with something else in their lives.
I have links to other tips below. Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Simona Zaffaroni-Lucas
Financial Analyst
26
Answers
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Updated
Simona’s Answer
Hello Carolina, thanks for your question.
I value more face to face connections vs digital, but it is not possible to always meet people in person. What I miss from the online connections is the firm handshake or eye contact when we speak. You can still detect if the online conversation is felt and if there is real connection, but it's easier when you meet with that person or groups. You can imagine, if you are talking about something that you both like, sometime words are not necessary, you both assess and draw your own conclusions just by looking at each other.. whereas in writing, that needs to be more explicit, it sounds more formal.
But apart from the communication format.. I think there are a few things that are valid whether we meet face to face or online.
- Authenticity: we are who we are and if we want to create some network, we cannot run away from our selves
- Openness: give and get. Not one way communication, but being able to listen and advice or simply say we don't know
- Add value: bring topics that help the communication to remain current and try to share experience
- Seek for mutual interaction: as we are looking for advises and expand our network, the people we network with are looking for the same
- Communication: connection, checking, listening
- Ultimately, you need to remain focused on your goals
I would start from small venues, schools, libraries and look for groups or small associations. If the topics that are discussed are something where you think you can contribute, I'd join and see if there are other connections. Keep it as mutual interaction, if you are open and have patience to build relationships, people will be happy for you to join.
Good luck.
I value more face to face connections vs digital, but it is not possible to always meet people in person. What I miss from the online connections is the firm handshake or eye contact when we speak. You can still detect if the online conversation is felt and if there is real connection, but it's easier when you meet with that person or groups. You can imagine, if you are talking about something that you both like, sometime words are not necessary, you both assess and draw your own conclusions just by looking at each other.. whereas in writing, that needs to be more explicit, it sounds more formal.
But apart from the communication format.. I think there are a few things that are valid whether we meet face to face or online.
- Authenticity: we are who we are and if we want to create some network, we cannot run away from our selves
- Openness: give and get. Not one way communication, but being able to listen and advice or simply say we don't know
- Add value: bring topics that help the communication to remain current and try to share experience
- Seek for mutual interaction: as we are looking for advises and expand our network, the people we network with are looking for the same
- Communication: connection, checking, listening
- Ultimately, you need to remain focused on your goals
I would start from small venues, schools, libraries and look for groups or small associations. If the topics that are discussed are something where you think you can contribute, I'd join and see if there are other connections. Keep it as mutual interaction, if you are open and have patience to build relationships, people will be happy for you to join.
Good luck.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6308
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Carolina!
Balancing Networking Without Seeming One-Sided
Understanding Networking Dynamics
Networking is fundamentally about building relationships that are mutually beneficial. To achieve this balance, it’s essential to approach networking with a mindset of reciprocity. This means not only seeking help or advice but also being prepared to offer value in return. Recognizing that networking is a two-way street can alleviate the pressure of feeling one-sided.
Identifying Common Interests and Goals
Before reaching out to someone on LinkedIn or any other platform, take time to research their background, interests, and professional goals. Look for commonalities such as shared industries, educational backgrounds, or mutual connections. This information can serve as a foundation for your conversation and demonstrate that you have a genuine interest in them beyond just what they can provide for you.
Crafting Your Message Thoughtfully
When composing your message, be clear and concise about why you are reaching out. Start with a personalized greeting that acknowledges something specific about their profile or work. For example, mention a recent project they worked on or an article they published that resonated with you. This shows that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in them as individuals.
Next, articulate your purpose for connecting. Instead of directly asking for help or favors right away, consider framing your request in a way that invites dialogue. For instance, you might say something like: “I’m currently exploring opportunities in [specific field], and I noticed your extensive experience in this area. I would love to hear about your journey and any insights you might share.”
Offering Value Upfront
To avoid coming across as one-sided, think about how you can provide value to the person you’re contacting before they even respond. This could be sharing relevant articles, offering insights from your own experiences, or even connecting them with someone in your network who might be beneficial to them. By initiating the relationship with an offer of assistance or information, you set a collaborative tone from the outset.
Following Up Respectfully
If you don’t receive a response immediately, it’s important to follow up respectfully after some time has passed—typically one to two weeks is appropriate. In your follow-up message, reiterate your interest in connecting without sounding pushy. You could say something like: “I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to follow up on my previous note regarding [topic]. I’d still love the chance to connect if you’re available.”
Building Relationships Over Time
Networking should not be viewed as a one-time interaction but rather as an ongoing process of relationship-building. After establishing initial contact and having conversations, continue engaging with their content on LinkedIn by liking or commenting on their posts. This keeps you on their radar and shows continued interest without direct solicitation.
Additionally, consider scheduling periodic check-ins where you can update each other on progress within your respective fields or share new insights relevant to both parties’ interests.
Conclusion: The Art of Mutual Benefit
Ultimately, successful networking hinges on authenticity and mutual benefit. By approaching potential connections with respect for their time and expertise while being open about your own needs and how you can contribute back, you’ll foster relationships that are rewarding for both sides.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Harvard Business Review
A leading resource for business professionals providing insights into effective networking strategies based on research and expert opinions.
2. LinkedIn Learning
Offers courses specifically focused on networking skills tailored for professionals looking to enhance their career opportunities through effective relationship-building techniques.
3. Forbes
Publishes articles discussing best practices in professional networking along with personal anecdotes from successful entrepreneurs emphasizing the importance of reciprocal relationships.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Balancing Networking Without Seeming One-Sided
Understanding Networking Dynamics
Networking is fundamentally about building relationships that are mutually beneficial. To achieve this balance, it’s essential to approach networking with a mindset of reciprocity. This means not only seeking help or advice but also being prepared to offer value in return. Recognizing that networking is a two-way street can alleviate the pressure of feeling one-sided.
Identifying Common Interests and Goals
Before reaching out to someone on LinkedIn or any other platform, take time to research their background, interests, and professional goals. Look for commonalities such as shared industries, educational backgrounds, or mutual connections. This information can serve as a foundation for your conversation and demonstrate that you have a genuine interest in them beyond just what they can provide for you.
Crafting Your Message Thoughtfully
When composing your message, be clear and concise about why you are reaching out. Start with a personalized greeting that acknowledges something specific about their profile or work. For example, mention a recent project they worked on or an article they published that resonated with you. This shows that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in them as individuals.
Next, articulate your purpose for connecting. Instead of directly asking for help or favors right away, consider framing your request in a way that invites dialogue. For instance, you might say something like: “I’m currently exploring opportunities in [specific field], and I noticed your extensive experience in this area. I would love to hear about your journey and any insights you might share.”
Offering Value Upfront
To avoid coming across as one-sided, think about how you can provide value to the person you’re contacting before they even respond. This could be sharing relevant articles, offering insights from your own experiences, or even connecting them with someone in your network who might be beneficial to them. By initiating the relationship with an offer of assistance or information, you set a collaborative tone from the outset.
Following Up Respectfully
If you don’t receive a response immediately, it’s important to follow up respectfully after some time has passed—typically one to two weeks is appropriate. In your follow-up message, reiterate your interest in connecting without sounding pushy. You could say something like: “I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to follow up on my previous note regarding [topic]. I’d still love the chance to connect if you’re available.”
Building Relationships Over Time
Networking should not be viewed as a one-time interaction but rather as an ongoing process of relationship-building. After establishing initial contact and having conversations, continue engaging with their content on LinkedIn by liking or commenting on their posts. This keeps you on their radar and shows continued interest without direct solicitation.
Additionally, consider scheduling periodic check-ins where you can update each other on progress within your respective fields or share new insights relevant to both parties’ interests.
Conclusion: The Art of Mutual Benefit
Ultimately, successful networking hinges on authenticity and mutual benefit. By approaching potential connections with respect for their time and expertise while being open about your own needs and how you can contribute back, you’ll foster relationships that are rewarding for both sides.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Harvard Business Review
A leading resource for business professionals providing insights into effective networking strategies based on research and expert opinions.
2. LinkedIn Learning
Offers courses specifically focused on networking skills tailored for professionals looking to enhance their career opportunities through effective relationship-building techniques.
3. Forbes
Publishes articles discussing best practices in professional networking along with personal anecdotes from successful entrepreneurs emphasizing the importance of reciprocal relationships.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Robert Wen
Build and Release Engineer
3
Answers
Redwood City, California
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Maybe just keep things simple.
Describe the situation you need help and briefly why you reach out.
What kind of outcome you are looking for.
Practically, since you don't know other persons, how would you know exactly what they are looking for? Then why worry about it?
Depending on what response you get, perhaps there's opportunity to connect further.
Hope that helps.
Describe the situation you need help and briefly why you reach out.
What kind of outcome you are looking for.
Practically, since you don't know other persons, how would you know exactly what they are looking for? Then why worry about it?
Depending on what response you get, perhaps there's opportunity to connect further.
Hope that helps.
Aman Kumar
Software engineer
161
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Aman’s Answer
Hi Carolina,
Navigating networking can definitely feel daunting, especially when you're trying to ensure it’s mutually beneficial. One strategy I find effective is to approach networking with a mindset of genuine curiosity rather than simply looking for something in return. For instance, if you find someone whose work or experience aligns with your interests, start by acknowledging their achievements or specific projects that have impressed you; this personal touch can break the ice and shift the conversation from being transactional to relational.
Afterward, consider asking open-ended questions about their experiences or insights in their field. For example, you could say, "I noticed you've worked a lot with XYZ project in the tech sector; how did you manage some of the challenges?" This demonstrates your interest in their expertise while giving them a chance to share their knowledge.
Over time, if you build this rapport, you might find opportunities where you can offer value back—whether through sharing an interesting article, connecting them to someone in your network, or simply providing a different perspective on a topic you both care about. Remember, the goal is to cultivate a genuine relationship that can evolve into a symbiotic connection.
Hope this helps you in your networking journey!
Best,
Aman
Navigating networking can definitely feel daunting, especially when you're trying to ensure it’s mutually beneficial. One strategy I find effective is to approach networking with a mindset of genuine curiosity rather than simply looking for something in return. For instance, if you find someone whose work or experience aligns with your interests, start by acknowledging their achievements or specific projects that have impressed you; this personal touch can break the ice and shift the conversation from being transactional to relational.
Afterward, consider asking open-ended questions about their experiences or insights in their field. For example, you could say, "I noticed you've worked a lot with XYZ project in the tech sector; how did you manage some of the challenges?" This demonstrates your interest in their expertise while giving them a chance to share their knowledge.
Over time, if you build this rapport, you might find opportunities where you can offer value back—whether through sharing an interesting article, connecting them to someone in your network, or simply providing a different perspective on a topic you both care about. Remember, the goal is to cultivate a genuine relationship that can evolve into a symbiotic connection.
Hope this helps you in your networking journey!
Best,
Aman
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
780
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
To create authentic and beneficial networking, you need to shift your mindset from transactional to relational. Instead of viewing networking as a means to ask for favors, see it as a chance to build significant relationships. When you connect with someone on LinkedIn or any other professional platform, begin by finding common ground. This could be shared interests, mutual acquaintances, or similar career paths. By personalizing your message, you show genuine interest in the person, not just what they can offer you.
Also, make sure to provide something valuable in return. This could be an insightful article, a unique viewpoint, or simply your availability as a resource. By showing your commitment to the relationship and not just the benefits you can receive, you lay the groundwork for a more balanced and valuable connection. Remember, networking is about fostering long-term, reciprocal relationships. Ask meaningful questions, show interest in their experiences, and allow the relationship to develop at its own pace.
Cultivating a relationship with others over time can result in valuable exchanges that benefit both parties. The more genuine you are, the more likely others will want to invest their time and advice in you. In the end, a successful network is one built on mutual respect, trust, and shared value.
Also, make sure to provide something valuable in return. This could be an insightful article, a unique viewpoint, or simply your availability as a resource. By showing your commitment to the relationship and not just the benefits you can receive, you lay the groundwork for a more balanced and valuable connection. Remember, networking is about fostering long-term, reciprocal relationships. Ask meaningful questions, show interest in their experiences, and allow the relationship to develop at its own pace.
Cultivating a relationship with others over time can result in valuable exchanges that benefit both parties. The more genuine you are, the more likely others will want to invest their time and advice in you. In the end, a successful network is one built on mutual respect, trust, and shared value.
Donna McLeod
Project Manager
9
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Donna’s Answer
People love talking about themselves and their professional journey and sharing that will most that will listen. My suggestion, will be to focus on genuinely building relationships by actively listening, showing interest in the other person's career and experiences, offering your own relevant insights, and being ready to provide help or create connections when appropriate, rather than solely seeking opportunities for yourself. You will have created relationships of substance, and it will assist you from the point you in enter the workforce and until you retire. I promise you!