In today's fast-paced world, it can be easy to forget the value of human connection. With technology constantly evolving, we often find ourselves immersed in our own little bubbles, isolated from the outside world. But, as Bethany Kurbis, a senior executive coach and consultant, found out, our need for connection and networking can be immensely rewarding.
Bethany, an introvert by nature, once believed that she couldn't get enough space from people. However, during the height of the pandemic, she had the opportunity to live in Kenya and work remotely. Her days were flipped, allowing her to enjoy peaceful mornings filled with solitude and introspection. It seemed like a dream come true for someone who cherished their alone time.
But after about a year of this routine, Bethany realized something had changed. She had reached the end of her introversion. The need for other people began to surface, and she found herself craving connection. A series of events led her back to her hometown after 15 years away, and she started reconnecting with old friends and family. The disorienting sense of needing people became apparent for the first time, and Bethany knew it was time to embrace this new phase.
On the professional side, Bethany's clients were spread out across the U.S. and the globe. Wanting to connect with local professionals, she decided to delve into networking. However, she soon discovered that networking can be seen as disingenuous or even manipulative. Many people feel uncomfortable with the idea of networking.
In a coaching conversation, Bethany had a breakthrough. She realized that networking is simply acknowledging that as human beings, we need each other. Our survival and evolution are intricately tied to our ability to connect with others. The best networkers are those who excel at building relationships and making genuine connections.
Bethany shared a few key insights on how to make networking feel more human:
1. Have an open and curious mindset: Approach conversations with genuine interest and ask thoughtful questions. Avoid making assumptions about others and truly listen to their experiences and perspectives.
2. Recognize that nobody has it all figured out: Everyone is on their own journey with their own goals, visions, and challenges. By understanding and empathizing with others' needs, you can identify ways to help them and create mutually beneficial relationships.
3. Embrace the power of storytelling: Share your experiences and accomplishments through meaningful stories. Stories have a unique ability to convey who we are and what we are capable of, creating a connection with others.
4. Be confident in offering support: When you identify needs that you can assist with, express your willingness to help calmly and confidently. Avoid over-promising and instead focus on being honest about what you can offer. This will set the stage for successful collaborations in the future.
5. Stay connected and extend grace: Building relationships takes time and effort. Life is busy, but finding ways to stay connected, whether through occasional check-ins or virtual meet-ups, can nurture long-lasting connections. Remember to extend grace to yourself and others, as everyone is juggling their own responsibilities.
Bethany's networking journey has revealed the incredible value of human connection. Through the relationships she has formed, she has opened up exciting opportunities for collaboration and impact in her career and community. She is grateful to those who have been open to her and hopes to extend the same support and connection to others.
In a world that often emphasizes individualism and self-reliance, acknowledging our need for human connection is a powerful and rewarding journey. Networking, when approached genuinely and with empathy, becomes an avenue for meaningful relationships and growth. So, the next time you feel hesitant about networking, remember that it is simply an acknowledgment of our inherent need for each other.
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