“Networking with purpose: building Connections”
“Your network is your net worth.”
- Porter Gale
So where do I start? With the truth as always! Networking gets a bad rep. For many of you in the media advertising and tech industry, networking is a must. But when you get to a point where you are looking for a new job, somehow it feels awkward, salesy, or worse... pointless. We've all been there: standing at a stale conference or event, with a nasty coffee in one hand and sweaty palms, looking for the next person to force a discussion with (by the way, if in-person networking is really awkward for you, read Captivate by Vanessa Van Edward. No affiliation!)
But… the best networking actually doesn’t feel like networking. It feels like conversation.
And that brings me to one of my own 3 Cs that helped shape my career:
Connection.
My own ‘IBM Moment’ that changed everything
Years ago, I had no idea that a casual conversation would change my career trajectory. I’d connected with a senior leader at IBM - not with a CV, not with a pitch, but through a real conversation that started with me being able to help him in his own career.
We spoke about career direction, talent, and potential - not job openings.
Weeks later, I got a call from IBM. I’d been recommended to them. So that connection led to one of the most transformative roles I’ve ever been lucky enough to get. (Thanks to Shane at IBM!)
No cold email. No awkward pitch. Just authentic connection.
Why we overthink networking, and when should you do it?
Always! Don’t stop! And here’s what I hear from job seekers the most:
- “I don’t want to bother anyone.”
- “What do I even say?”
- “I don’t have anything interesting to connect on.”
Sound familiar?
Let me reframe it for you: Networking isn’t asking for a job. It’s asking for a conversation.
You’re not bothering anyone! You’re giving them the chance to connect with someone new.
The Courage to Connect
Maybe this gives you the ick? Here’s a little confidence reframe from my coaching:
Networking is easy if you keep these 3 things in mind:
- Curiosity - Be genuinely interested in their work, journey, or insights.
- Contribution - Share something of value (your perspective or a recent article).
- Consistency - One message won’t change your life. But five a week…?
And just like that, networking becomes less about performance and just totally about being human.
How? Take a small, first step
- A connection challenge for you: comment on a post you genuinely found useful.
See? No sales pitch. No CV. Just you being curious and courageous. You never know where it might lead!
And if this resonates, and you want support in building your confidence, strategy, or your presence - let’s connect.
👉 Book your discovery call here: https://career-coach.net/
Next up in our blog series:
“Limiting Beliefs: How to stop getting in your own way”
(Hint: It starts with ditching any “I’m not qualified enough” thoughts on loop)
Samantha Barron, Certified professional Coach and Agile Champion at Career Coach