Why Networking Often Doesn’t Work—and How to Change That (Bonus EP32)

The best social sharing snippet from Karlyn in this interview... "When you go into a networking environment or when you're interacting with other humans, it doesn't make sense to always be selling. And that's why it feels icky."When we hear "networking," it's easy to picture forced exchanges, endless card-swapping, and uncomfortable moments filled with business talk that feels anything but genuine. But what if networking could be redefined into something that feels purposeful, enjoyable, and effective?In a recent conversation with networking expert Karlyn, she shares the why and how of networking in a way that actually works—moving beyond simply trying to gain connections and toward building real relationships that uplift both parties. Let’s look at what she shared about why networking feels so icky for many of us, and how to transform it into something powerful and fulfilling.Enjoy the episode!02:10 The Essence of Networking05:45 Overcoming Networking Challenges08:28 Effective Networking Strategies16:51 The Giving Hour Concept24:05 Practical Networking Tips and Pitfalls30:24 Final Thoughts and Takeaways33:38 Conclusion and Contact Information👉 For all the links and resources mentioned in this episode, check out the supporting blog post here.Stop second-guessing your to-do list and grab the Marketing Energy Matrix to focus on the tasks that actually get you results. 👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://compassdigitalstrategies.com/digital-marketing-services/marketing-energy-matrix/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Peek inside my toolbox for all my tools.⁠⁠⁠Visit ⁠⁠⁠Episodes I Like Playlist⁠⁠⁠ for other recommended episodes I've enjoyed.🗞️ Like newsletters?⁠⁠⁠ Digital Marketing Takeaway⁠⁠⁠About This ShowSmall Business Sweet Spot is a podcast show created by Compass Digital Strategies LLC. Founder, Barb Davids, wanted to create a show that was more direct and to the point around topics that improve our small businesses and personal lives. A self-professed podcast junkie, she listens to a variety of shows on her runs and road trips.Compass Digital Strategies is for people who are tired of their website being the thing that stresses them out. Around here, it gets simpler. We’re not here to add more to your plate. This is about having someone who sees what you’re dealing with and helps you sort it out. Clearly. Personally. In a way that doesn’t make you want to pull your hair out.