One of the things I've learned about networking is that every interaction is networking. So in order to be better at networking, ways you can improve these interactions. This can be things such as commenting on a blog post, attending a webinar, or sharing what someone has said on social media. These are additions that help people remember you. Another tip I've learned about networking is providing value without expecting a response in return. This can be sending a resource they might be interested in or sharing information that they need to solve a problem. Messages that get people to respond are ones that are narrowed, focused, and helpful.

We're always happy to help. Keep us informed about your progress! Joann

Thank you everyone for your wonderful suggestions and advice. I appreciate the time you spent answering my question. Many great ideas. Debbie

I totally agree with the prior advice you got here. Here are a few more tips: *Make sure you end any outreach to a new contact by offering to help in return. Networking works best when it's a two-way street. *In reaching out to fellow alums via LinkedIn, mention that connection right away as you'll likely hear back faster. *Put reminders in your calendar about various contacts you want to stay in touch with on a regular basis. *Your follow-up outreach should include links to interesting articles or online events that your contact might appreciate.

Some great advice on networking above! I'd also add, a great way to find new folks to add to your network is through LinkedIn's alumni tool. If you graduated from a college or university, you already have a built in network of fellow alums. You can use the powerful data in the tool to find folks in jobs, industries or companies you'd be interested in learning more about. You already have a common factor with initiating a relationship with them so it's an easy way to start! I have a free quick overview of the tool here: https://www.alybrine.com/LinkedInAlumniTool

You probably have a list of companies that you would like to work with...research some of those...follow them...and look for any connections in your network for "introductions!"

Debbie -- I'm so glad to see that you posted this. So many people shy away from networking. However it can be a great way to meet new people and truly one of the most effective ways to bolster your career. A few suggestions: + Get involved in groups where you have a common interest, both professional and personal. Think about it as expanding your circle from a human first approach. + This can be both in person (difficult now!) or in online groups such as here on FGB, FB groups, LinkedIn groups and other online forums. + Start building these relationships in groups and then invite people to have an online "coffee" to get to know one another. + Approach networking as win win for all. What I mean by that is not about what you can do for me, but how can we help one another? + Keep in touch! Follow up and check in regularly. Relationships take time to build. + Consider investing in a paid networking organization, such as something like The Cru where members are looking for networking opportunities. Best of luck here!

I want to flip the switch on how you think about networking and then how to network all so you can get better at it. Instead of thinking about networking as ways to get people to know that you're looking for a job, think of networking as ways to meet people where you can support each other's career growth. How can you be of service to someone else, whom do you know that you can connect people together? I find some of the greatest places to networking (online and off) are industry associations where you can naturally be in groups with people who do what you do. I would also consider joining women's groups like Elevate, Dreamers and Doers and Lean In where the goal is to boost each other through networking and opportunities for growth.

Volunteering is the way to go. You’d be amazed at the people you can get to know by getting involved in your community. Some options would be Rotary International, Optimist Club, Jaycees (depending on your age), your local Chamber of Commerce.

Reach out to people you trust in your industry. Many people are willing to help others, but may not reach out proactively.