At awkward events. To exchange business cards. For when you need something from someone.
No. Networking is like gardening. It is about growing relationships.
Meaningful relationships with real people. People you work with, have meetings with, run into at the coffee machine at the office. To exchange pleasantries, share interests, have a laugh.
And networking is about nourishing these relationships. Staying in touch. Celebrating occasions. Helping each other.
Some relationships, like some plants, will need more regular up-keeping than others. Some a regular splash. Some a more sporadic drop.
Without your attention, your network will wither. So you need to plan this.
Do you have time set aside for your relationship gardening?
I can always help :)
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