Awkward Networking (and How to Fix it)

When you hear the word "networking," do you feel yourself cringe a bit? Maybe you feel awkward networking. Or maybe you tell yourself "I don't have time for networking", although deep down you know you're avoiding it.  Most of the working moms I talk to don't actually hate networking. They hate what they think networking requires of them. Pushy. Fake. Transactional.  Needing to pretend how confident and awesome you are (even when you're feeling stuck at work). Here's what I want you to know: that version of networking?  It does not work anyway.  And more importantly, there is a better, more authentic way to network. In this week's episode, I'm sharing a completely different framework for building career relationships -- one that works for introverts, works for busy women with zero spare hours, and doesn't require you to cold-DM strangers or show up to awkward events clutching a stack of business cards. I'll be honest with you: I've watched brilliant, accomplished women stall their own careers because they were waiting until they "had something to offer" before reaching out. Or waiting until they had a clear plan. Or waiting until things calmed down. This episode is for anyone who has ever been in that waiting room. What You'll Learn: Why transactional networking backfires  The two biggest networking mistakes I see ambitious women make (and how to recognize if you're making them) A simple three-pillar framework for building real, career-boosting relationships without the ick factor A practical way to get started, even when you have zero time for networking This one is worth carving out 20 minutes for. I promise you will think about networking differently by the time it's done. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.