Effortless Networking?

I recently attended a colliquium for my PhD program. It is a great opportunity to network in addition to the learning and reflection. Networking sometimes feels like a little bit of a struggle. While it is certainly fun to meet new people, it can have a flavor of competition or positioning that does not feel quite right. This time, instead of trying to promote myself, I relaxed and opened myself to the experience. I was curious about other people, asked lots of questions and gave them my full attention, not thinking about what to say next or whether I'll get their business card, etc. I had a great time with this approach and made some great contacts, just as many worthwhile contacts as if I had pushed myself to self-promote. Can networking really be this easy?

Shaun

(c) 2005 Shaun Jamison All Rights Reserved.