We know the importance of networking, yet many people shy away from it. If you find yourself debating whether you should attend that event or reach out to someone new, you’re not alone. There are valid reasons why people don’t network, but there are also powerful reasons why we should.

Let’s unpack why it’s so tempting to avoid networking:

1. Other priorities take over. In the hustle of daily responsibilities, networking may fall to the wayside. It’s important to view networking as an investment in your dream career or expanding your knowledge base about an industry or topic. Move away from seeing it as another task on your to-do list.
2. Not knowing anyone at the event. Walking into a room full of strangers can be daunting! Shift your mindset and think of networking as an opportunity to learn something new or to connect with a new friend. If you leave with just one new piece of information or one new contact – you’re a step ahead!
3. Fear of rejection. You may not click with everyone, but by putting yourself out there, you strengthen your communication skills. Don’t self-reject! You’ll never know the outcome if you don’t attend the event, send the email, or join the community.
4. Uncertainty about the benefits. Remember that networking is about more than just immediate gain. It’s about building relationships which could lead to mentorship, collaboration, or unexpected opportunities. You could also be a valuable resource to someone else as they learn from you. Now that is a confidence booster!

So where should you start?

By better understanding your fears and reasons you avoid networking, you’ll be able to explore this important aspect of your personal and professional growth. You can start small if necessary – leave comments on posts, ask a question, or share something you found helpful. Bring someone with you to that event if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Great opportunities often lie on the other side of fear, so start building those connections! Here at Giraffe, our mission is accelerating empowerment and confidence, one person at a time.Join us with a follow for more career tips and resources! You can request a demo of the Giraffe app here.