I’ve been a full-time business owner for twenty-five years, so I’ve done quite a bit of networking. Let me add that I am a bona fide introvert and don’t enjoy small talk. That limits the kind of networking I enjoy.

I do attend conferences, Rotary meetings, and chamber events, but it’s extremely rare. If I do go into this kind of arena, I need to have very specific goals. I will set a target for the number of contacts, conversations, and follow-up meetings I plan to secure. I will not let myself leave until the goal is met. This is achieved through pure determination.

While I accept that my marketing strategies will not always be enjoyable, I have found a way to tip the balance towards pleasant interactions and excellent results. I’ve achieved this by knowing myself very well and being selective.

Here are the networking strategies I don’t avoid:

My Current Favorite: Pickleball!

Yep, I drank the Kool-Aid. I’ve joined two local clubs, one is indoors and the other is outdoors. I am a beginner, putting my pride in my pocket and trying not to kill myself. Having said all that, I am surrounded by people who are comfortably retired. When I say I must go home after a couple of games, they ask why. I tell them I’m still working, and they ask, “what do you do?” When I explain I am a career coach and the founder of a coaching school, the foundation is laid for referrals.

Public Speaking

I enjoy inspiring people and telling stories. I also appreciate the efficiency of public speaking. Whatever the size of the audience, I promote what I do and who I am through my bio or my expertise. Then I can go home and enjoy the evening.

Weekly Newsletter

I send this bit of myself to each of you every week. About 50% of the 2300 people who receive this newsletter read it. Thank you for that. My topic comes from my heart, not AI. This is my ongoing drip campaign, staying in front of people consistently. About 50% of the 2300 people who receive this newsletter read it. Thank you for that.

Here's my point. Whether you are a business owner, job seeker, or professional building your network, you must do things you enjoy and are good at. Otherwise, you won’t do it.