Learn the art of slow networking

Make your networking slow and meandering , like a river

It’s interesting how much store is placed online to network when in reality the best networking transcends these transactional exchanges and is personal, long-term, reciprocal and gracious.

I am coaching someone who has always landed on his feet and never had to network before. However, circumstances have changed and he told me this week his biggest takeaway from coaching is the karmic benefits of slow networking as they are providing him with options and opportunities that conventional job search methods would not have created.

Think of slow networking as a winding river that ebbs and flows and changes over time, that has an end goal but isn’t rushing to the sea any time soon.

Here are my top tips:

Build relationships for the future not the immediate term. This means keeping in touch with people, dropping them a line every six months or so , sharing helpful information, connecting them with others, brainstorming ideas.

Take time away from LinkedIn to do this. Call people, drop them an email, make your approach personal around having a chat to see how things are, rather than seeking a specific outcome. It sounds counter-intuitive but it works. It's not about the quick wins but creating enduring bonds.

Have a genuine interest in others—not just their titles or accolades, but their passions, struggles, and aspirations. Be kind and gracious and take time to listen to understand their needs and you will form the foundation of a mutually beneficial relationship.

Go on, give slow networking a go - it’s not called relationship building for nothing!