🗣 Networking smarter, not harder.

And now, I need a nap.

Author

Cassidy Edwards
December 06, 2023

👋🏽 Hey, you’re just on time for the mid-week office party. 🎉 

Yo. You’re on Mute is back with a very important topic - NETWORKING. This is going to be part of a series this month themed around what we are investing in for 2024. Why not start with connections?!

Another full circle moment as to why this newsletter was created. Aside from the joy of connecting with other talented folks, I aim to help you unlock those superpowers inside (and outside) the workplace. Being of service is a personal core value, and I sure as hell needed some guidance when I joined the HR adventures 15 years ago. WHEW.

This is for those 9-5ers, side hustlers, entrepreneurs, and creatives+. We are on a mission to come off mute and build something fun along the way. Let’s get into it…

⛽️ Fueling creativity + community + connections ⛽️

🗣 Special Sound Off: a very special shoutout goes to Danielle Melton, founder of MOTHERboard. She has a very special vision + mission to support the wellbeing of working moms. She understands that the commitment to working moms goes well beyond corporate responsibility. We can’t wait to see all the success she will have. Stay tuned on this one. 🤎

If this email was forwarded to you, tap in and join the cool collective.

When I tell you networking was my biggest CRINGE about five years ago…

Like, I have to talk to people to make meaningful connections outside the workplace? and not in a party setting?

Networking was truly a challenge because I didn’t know how to navigate these streets. My internal GPS kept re-routing me to something more familiar. As in, not doing it completely.

Fun fact: I’ve always seen myself as an Introvert who knows how to turn it ‘ON’ when necessary. I love my alone time. I love to people watch without being spoken to. I actually like to retreat into my own space, with my own thoughts to comfort me quietly.

Then I found out I’m actually more aligned with that of an Ambivert. Once I took the time out to understand how to be social without feeling miserable and anxious, I had the right roadmap. As an ambivert, I still love my alone time on the couch, but enjoy being social in the right setting and with some good recharge (read: decompress) afterwards.

❝

“Can’t even see the stars, but we still wish. Real sh*t. Who would’ve ever thought we’d build this.”

- Nipsey Hussle

Networking is a vital ingredient in the recipe for career (and creative) success. Whether you're just starting or have hit a roadblock, building a strong network can sometimes feel like a challenge or just plain overwhelming.

So boom. How do we even tackle this? I’m glad you asked, keep scrolling.

✋🏽 In today's fast-paced professional world, networking has become an indispensable skill for career growth and personal development.

Let’s envision our roadmap again. There are twists and turns to get to the destination of confident networking, but we have some rest stops along the way to power up our skills. Everyone loves a rest stop - have you all ever been inside a BUC-EES! (the Beverly Hills of gas station/rest stops). Below are 7 rest stops to support you on your journey.

📍Define Your Purpose: Before diving into networking, take a moment to clarify your goals. Ask yourself why you want to build a network and what you hope to achieve. Understanding your purpose will guide your efforts in the right direction.

📍Embrace Authenticity: Be yourself PLEASE. Authenticity is the key to forming genuine connections. Share your passions, interests, and experiences openly, and you'll attract like-minded individuals who resonate with your journey.

📍Be a Listener: Effective networking is not just about talking; it's about listening. Show a genuine interest in others, ask questions, and pay attention to their responses. People appreciate being heard and are more likely to remember you for it.

📍Diversify Your Network: Don't limit yourself to people within your immediate industry. Explore diverse interests and fields; you never know where valuable connections might emerge. Different perspectives can lead to fresh opportunities.

📍Follow Up: Building relationships is an ongoing process. After meeting someone, remember to follow up with a message or email. Keep the conversation going, share resources, and offer help when you can.

📍Contribute Value: Networking isn't just about what you can gain; it's also about what you can give. Share your knowledge, offer assistance, and support others in their endeavors. Generosity can lead to meaningful reciprocity.

📍Join Online Communities: Virtual communities, such as forums and social media groups, provide a platform to connect with people worldwide who share your passions. Engage in discussions, offer insights, and make valuable connections online. (Hey Safe Space! 👋🏽)

✋🏽 When in doubt, bring a friend along to help you network if possible.

time to sound off.

We all need some conversation starters to give us that extra razzle dazzle. Check out a few basics below.

🗣 “Hey, these networking events can be so crazy. Mind if I join you over here where it’s a little quieter? (read: fill in the gaps at an event)

🗣 “Hey I love your shoes/outfit!” (read: we love a good compliment 👟)

🗣 “This event is great. What brought you here today? (read: easy breezy)

🗣 “Hi, I’m Cassidy. I’d love to hear more about what you do? (read: a classic)

What are some that have worked for you all?

^^live footage of my social battery depleting.

Dear introvert...

Building a network takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged by initial setbacks or rejections. Stay persistent and keep nurturing your relationships; the rewards will come.

Now for my introverts specifically, I haven’t forgotten about you.

Here are a few hacks to remember.

📍Start Small: Large networking events can be overwhelming for introverts. Instead, seek out smaller gatherings or niche conferences where you're more likely to have meaningful interactions. These environments often foster more relaxed and personal connections.

📍Attend Workshops and Webinars: Educational events can be amazing networking opportunities. Attend workshops and webinars related to your interests or industry. These gatherings attract individuals who are eager to learn and connect. It doesn’t always have to be a social hour (read: party)

📍Quality Over Quantity: It's not about collecting a vast number of contacts; it's about forming meaningful connections. Focus on building genuine relationships with people who share your interests and values. Seek out individuals who inspire and motivate you, and nurture those connections over time.

📍Online Networking: Shoot your shot in the DM! Respectfully of course. Embrace the power of digital networking. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram provide excellent opportunities to connect with professionals/creatives who share your interests. You can start by following industry leaders or influencers, participating in relevant discussions, and sharing your insights.

📍Elevator Pitch Preparation: Craft a concise and engaging elevator pitch that highlights your skills, interests, and what you're looking to achieve. Having this ready will boost your confidence when introducing yourself and help you leave a memorable impression. An elevator pitch doesn’t have to sell something, it can introduce people to who you are.

📍Volunteer or Join Groups: Participating in volunteer work can be a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals. Working on shared projects (especially community driven ones) can create natural bonding opportunities.

Set Realistic Goals! Networking is something that is not necessarily a one and done. Whether it's connecting with a certain number of people each month or attending one networking event per quarter, having targets can help you stay on track.

now take an affirmation to boost that networking confidence.

💫 I am magnet for meaningful connections.

💫 Every interaction brings new opportunities into my life.

💫 I am a valuable contributor to every conversation and relationship.

💫 I attract like-minded individuals who support my journey.

💫 I embrace the joy of networking and building relationships.

⚡️QUICKSTRIKE HR + OUT OF THE BOX NEWS

The HR/People Operations landscape is evolving. As the HR World Turns 🌎 could be its own show. Check out some of the happenings below.

  • I love reading about experiences and have recently been diving into Christine Song’s Diary of a CPO.

  • I’m REALLY interested in Gen Z flooding the workplace. Check out this article about how employers could be filling in the etiquette gap. 🤔

  • Super excited to support Peak HR (👋🏽 Shoutout to Kim Rohrer + Morgan Williams + Catalina Colman) ! Don’t miss out - tap in here to stay tuned.

👟 ONE TO ROCK, ONE TO STOCK

Some HR people may like pilates and shopping trips to Ulta. You could say my thing is sneakers + streetwear. If you enjoy sneaker culture - this section is for you.

🗣 LET’S COME OFF MUTE + CONNECT

Supporting the small biz/brand owner is important to me. Each newsletter, I’ll introduce you to some talented people in my network and beyond.

🎧 A SONG I DIDN’T SKIP ON MY PLAYLIST TODAY

Rappers from the South are legendary in my book (what do you expect when I’m from Houston, Texas). Pimp C was one half of UGK, and he would have been 50 years old this month. Rest in Power Sweet Jones.

🎁 It’s a Giveaway! 

I’m all about appreciation this season, and all of my subscribers will be entered into a special raffle powered by the Swoosh (check, check). If you have been wanting that new pair (👟) for the New Year, you might get lucky at the end of this month.

Bonus points: if you refer a subscriber from here to end of December, you will get an EXTRA entry into the raffle. 😉 Tap into the referral link below.

a weekly mantra.