Networking 101

Gardening is not only a beloved hobby (passed down from my mother), it’s also one of my favorite metaphors for situations where growth is a desired outcome. This week, I'll be addressing the first step of “how” to get started. My next newsletter will talk about maintaining that garden and I’ll finish by addressing the questions about how this growing network can help you, reader, in your job hunt.

Gardening is a multifaceted task. I’ll be focusing on three steps in the process: planting seeds, maintaining your perennials, and providing water and nutrients for your plants. The phrase “networking” can leave people with a bad taste in their mouth because they view it as “finding ways to use other people to achieve their personal goals”. Instead, I encourage you to look at it building relationships that are mutually beneficial. When you garden, you are putting time and resources into your plants to help them thrive, and they’re providing you with food and/or beauty.

Planting

Many people’s default scenario for “networking” is awkwardly introducing themselves to a stranger. Meeting new people IS one facet of networking, but it doesn’t have to be so intimidating. Think of it as planting a new seed in the soil. You don’t always know what will grow, and not all seeds that you plant end up sprouting, which is why you plant more seeds than you need.

Ways to get new plants into your garden includes:

• Attending a networking event AND talking to people you don’t know. The great thing about this type of event is that EVERYONE is there with the same purpose. Chat with people to see if you have something in common (and it doesn’t have to be just job related). See if there’s anything you can help them with and, most likely, they’ll ask you the same question. Be sure to share your contact information and follow up in a timely fashion (while the soil is still warm).

• Go to a networking event with a friend or colleague and ask them to introduce you to people they know. This is like buying a seedling rather than just planting a seed. There is already some growth in the plant because you enter the relationship and can build off the connection you already share. Seedlings are more likely to survive in your garden and, if the person you’re with knows you well, they’re more likely to connect you with the right kind of people so you don’t need to “plant” as many seedlings as you would plain seeds. The better the connection between your contact and this new person, the more established the plant that you’re working with.

• Connect with people at a conference or workshop. This can include fellow attendees as well as presenters and speakers. You’ve already got a built-in common interest since you’re attending the event. Again, be sure to share contact info and connect soon after.

• Find people working at companies you’d like to apply for on LinkedIn. Ideally, look for people who are already your second-degree connections (so you can get seedlings instead of seeds) and ask your connection if they’ll provide an e-introduction. You can also send connection request to people who are 3^rd degree or some 3^rd + connections (but not all). However, make sure to read their profile first and include a note that explains why you’re connecting with them and what interest you share beyond their place of employment.

• Connect with people in your industry who are creating content on social media platforms. Start by first commenting on their posts/content, so they see your name and become accustomed to it, and then send the connection request.

These are just a few of the ways you can make your garden grow. But you also already have some plants in your garden you haven’t thought about. Next time, I’ll discuss the bulbs and perennial in there, just waiting for your help to start really blossoming.

If you’re looking for more tips on how to become a “master gardener” on LinkedIn, I’ve scheduled my popular workshop Using LinkedIn to be a Powerhouse Networker for January 7, 2025 to kick your year off right! Join live or watch the recording afterwards.

In the next few months, I’ll be sharing multiple LinkedIn and Instagram videos on strategies for using LinkedIn during what feels like the job seeking doldrums between Thanksgiving and New Years. Follow me on those platforms (and I’m always happy to connect with newsletter readers, just mention that in your note when you send me the connection request).

PS: To keep myself and other fans of the arts entertained (remember, I am a Renaissance Woman after all), look for a reference to at least one song lyric or quote from a movie, TV show, play or musical. Message me on LinkedIn if you find it and you win…a virtual shout out in the next newsletter!

Hi! I’m Sara Kobilka, owner of Renaissance Woman Consulting.

I am a Renaissance Woman (what’s THAT? Good question! Here’s my answer). My wide-ranging background includes time as a TV meteorologist/reporter, non-profit leader, higher education program coordinator, curriculum designer, and now, business owner. During each leg of this journey, I gained new skills that I was able take with me in my next step. Now, I work remotely with clients to help them confidently tell their story and navigate the transition to the next leg of their career journey.

Take the Next Step

• Follow me on LinkedIn where I actively cross-pollinate impactful ideas across industries and disciplines (and regularly share job opportunities I come across)

• Check out my one-on-one career coaching program or join a cohort of job seekers for small group coaching

• Sign up to be the first to know when I offer my workshops: Using LinkedIn to be a Powerhouse Networker and How TV News Pros Can Land a Remote Job.

• Participate in one of my LinkedIn Sprints

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