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The Penguin Networker
Hey there, Penguin!Your networking style means you may be on the quiet side, but you have no shortage of ambition. At networking or group events, it's likely to see you with the same person at the entire event, kind of how a penguin chooses one partner for the rest of their life. A good "wingperson" makes all the difference!Penguins are great networkers because your inner squad leans on you for your willingness to listen to their ideas and to give powerful insights that make a difference for them. And while you have a darn good ear, that doesn't mean there aren't dreams and aspirations you'd like to fulfill upon too, am I right?While networking may not be your "jam," you know opportunities can lie just on the other side of a conversation and that's why you still say "yes" to attending events. You still have the courage to show up even though your solo conversation in your head says things like, "What if I say the wrong thing?", "People are just in it for themselves" or "Are people going to like what I have to say?" So what's holding you back from fulfilling on your wants and desires? Well for one, that pesky solo conversation is looming. And two, it can feel a little unpleasant asking people for what you want. You're the one that's most suited for contribution. Who would want to help you anyways, right? WRONG.You almost need someone to give you permission to go after the opportunities you would like for yourself while also having a little structure to support you on your journey. Guess what? You have the green light, it's time to treat yo' self because you've been helping others for so long and now, it's your time to shine. 1) Upgrade or Create Your LinkedIn Profile to Build Your Networking Foundation If you don't have a LinkedIn profile now may be a good time to think about creating one. You don't have to get fancy with it! Just create one and plan to complete over a 2 week time period. If you do have a profile, when was the last time you updated your bio, endorsed someone for the skills, sent a message to a friend, or wrote a recommendation for someone? 3) Identify Your "why" for networkingYou may be thinking, "What the heck do you mean by a 'why'?"This may sound a bit soft, but this work is really important to do so PLEASE DO NOT SKIP IT. I want you to get clear on your “why”. And by your “why”, I mean: How will your life look and feel different if you were to build a genuine network around you to meet the one person that could make a difference for you? The answer to this question is your "why".Your "why" has to be so big that it shrinks all of the tiny solo conversations you have in your head that may say, "I don't want to say the wrong thing" or "will people like me at the event?"Again, I know this last tip may come off a bit "soft", but I encourage you to do this important work. If you do your journey will come with a bit more ease and grace. 3) Prepare for Questions While you may not be prepared to answer EVERY question, you will be able to answer common questions that people ask you. Such as, "What do you do?"The reason why you get paid is a better explanation of what you do than your job title.For example, let’s assume you are a copywriter. You don’t just write for the sake of writing. There is a certain problem you actually solve for your clients. “I am a copywriter specializing in high value content to help small business owners increase their emailing list and convert them into paying clients”Answering the question by highlighting the problems you solve as part of your job is a lot more interesting than simply saying that you are a copywriter. This response is more focused on the value you bring to the table.4) The Best Networking Groups for you are:Chamber of Commerce, Online Networking Groups, Independent Networking Groups, and your existing network. If you venue into a networking group the above groups are perfect for you because they provide a soft landing, are warm, and welcoming. You also should try reaching out to your existing network via a text, email, call or social media message -- Penguins find a lot of traction in their existing network!Hi there, I’m Rochelle Groh, Co-Founder of CutClass. Cutclass is a whole new way of gaining knowledge to accelerate your career or business.Speaking of business, I’m obsessed with all things business, especially networking. Oftentimes, the opportunities that we have in business and even personally comes down to who we know. I love helping people build a thriving network with genuine people, even if they are new to the game, afraid to say the wrong thing, or need a reminder to just do it.I’m a California transplant living in Northern England. I've taken my business chops from CA to NY, and now the U.S. to the U.K. I work from home and run 2 businesses. No matter if you’re a networking beginner, or not, I can teach you the step-by-step, behind the scenes secrets to building a network that you love. 1) Follow me on Insta @itsRoGroh2) Check out my podcast called Allergic to Small Talk3) Book a 15 min Networking Strategy call with me: hereI look forward to staying connected w/ you!