Be Real, Be Remembered: The Role of Authenticity in Networking

Cultivating Trust and Influence Through Authentic Engagement

As a young professional with three years of experience in the corporate industry, I’ve discovered some invaluable tips for effective networking. Whether you’re a student just starting out or someone looking to expand their professional connections, these strategies can help you build and maintain a robust network in the digital age: 

1. Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn and propose for virtual coffee chats: Take initiative. The worst that can happen is they might decline, but the potential benefits far outweigh the risks. In my experience, many professionals are eager to engage with prospective candidates. These interactions allow them to scout talent firsthand, stay updated with industry trends, and explore new ideas.

Call to Action: Ready to make your next big connection? Pick a professional you admire and send them a friendly message proposing a coffee chat. Remember, every great relationship starts with a single conversation. Take the leap today and see where it leads—you might just find your next mentor, collaborator, or career opportunity!

2. Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is complete and up-to-date, with a professional photo, a compelling headline, and a detailed summary of your skills and experiences. Actively engage by sharing industry-relevant content, participating in discussions, and connecting with professionals in your field. Don’t be afraid to share your opinions and ideas. It’s always better to talk to talented individuals who think uniquely and outside the box than talking to candidates that only bring book-smart experiences to the table. 

Personally, I’d always select an individual that has an array of experience - from serving to teaching, whatever it may be, because that shows your diversity, your ability to multi-task and your resiliency to blend in. 

3. Be proactive: No one likes transactional interactions even though we as professionals know it is transactional. Show interest in who you’re having the coffee chat with. Research about them, go through their LinkedIn profile, and ask them curious questions. Follow-up with them at a later date just to check-in or to share how your job hunt has been going. By staying engaged regularly, you create a network based on trust and mutual support, which is far more rewarding in the long run.

In the digital age, authenticity is a cornerstone of effective networking. Being genuine in your interactions helps build trust and credibility, which are essential for forming lasting professional relationships. When you are authentic, you attract like-minded individuals and it helps you stand out in a crowded digital landscape, as people are more likely to remember and engage with someone who is sincere and transparent.

Remember, your network is your net worth. You never know who you may end up meeting, and maybe the next person you have a coffee with is a future CEO. 

Questions? Feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to chat.