Did you know that a whopping 85% of job openings are filled through networking?

If you’re looking to grow your career, explore something new, or build connections for future opportunities, you're in the right spot.

The better news? Networking is already something you know how to do.

Think about it this way: Networking is a series of conversations where you connect, collaborate, and create opportunities. And you already know how to have conversations, right?

So, let’s dive into how to make networking work for you so that you can start to master these conversations and level up your career right now.

Get Clear on What You Want

Ever feel like networking is like herding cats? You’re not alone! A lot of people struggle with getting a conversation started because they lack clarity. If you’re saying things like, “I’m open to anything!” or “I just want to grow!”, it can leave others confused about how they can help you.

Instead, take a moment to ask yourself questions like:

• What does “growth” mean for me?
• What skills do I have that could help others?
• What specific role am I aiming for next?
• Where do I see myself in 30, 60, 90 days?

Getting clear on your goals makes it easier for others to help you out. Plus, it sets the stage for more meaningful conversations because when you’re clear, you connect with assurance and confidence.

Who to Connect With

When you know what you want, think about who can help you get there. Here are three types of connections to consider:

• People with Similar Backgrounds: Connecting with those who share your experiences can provide valuable insights into next steps that you can take, skills that you already have or need to develop and ideas for opportunities.
• Those Ahead of You: Find professionals who are 2-5 or even 5-10 years ahead in their careers. They can share their journeys and what it takes to get where they are.
• Those Who are Where You Want to Be: Connect with individuals currently in positions you aspire to. They can give you the inside scoop on what it takes to land those roles.

Keep It Simple

You deserve the best—better pay, flexibility, work-life balance, and career growth! But trying to tackle everything at once can lead to burnout. The trick? Simplify your networking goals.

Focus 1-2 key areas that resonate with your current needs. For example, if your boss's micromanagement is stressing you out, prioritize connecting with people who can introduce you to new opportunities.

By addressing this first, you'll lighten your load and free up mental space for other goals later on. Remember, simplifying doesn’t mean giving up on your goals; it’s about prioritizing what matters most right now.

Optimize your Conversations

Guess what? Networking is a skill everyone can learn—yes, even you! It’s all about having conversations that help you connect and collaborate. To optimize your next conversation, remember to use my signature strategy:

1. Help Them Help You: It can be tempting to share a detailed background of who you are and where you’ve been when meeting someone. However, sharing too much can overwhelm the other person and muddy the waters. There will be time to share. In the meantime, practice sharing relevant information about yourself in a clear, specific, and concise manner.

Instead of sharing your job title and employer (which doesn’t really tell much about what you CAN DO), focus on highlighting key skills and experiences that provide meaningful insight. Try something like:

"I have a background in healthcare operations, specializing in change management and coaching leaders through organizational transitions. I'm attending today’s event to learn about the skills and experiences needed to deliver solutions to startups as I look to transition out of healthcare. What about you?"

2. Make It About Them: Show genuine curiosity about the other person’s journey. Instead of asking how they did it directly, say something like: “I’ve seen your career grow from A to B. What 2 skills or experiences helped you along the way?”

3. Balance Asking and Offering: Networking is a two-way street! Even if they don’t need anything from you right now, offer value: “I heard you're working on ABC, and I know someone who's an expert in that area; I’d love to connect you two!”

By using these strategies, you'll build connections that matter and make networking feel less like a chore.

Take Action!

Remember, networking is all about having conversations that help you reach your goals.

With 85% of jobs filled through networking, mastering this skill is the key to unlocking opportunities throughout your career.

Ready to get started? Use my simple framework that I shared here: Clarify, Simplify, Optimize.

If you're looking for more tips on mastering networking, DM me on Elpha or reach out to me through my website! I’d be happy to send over my free guide filled with pro tips just for you.

Let’s turn those conversations into career opportunities—one chat at a time!