Network Building
This online-focused networking activity can be done from your computer and often starts with a 'Connect' button.
What is connecting on a social network?
The simplest currency in networking, this resource is what you give when helping someone with a project or task.
What is offering time?
This simple but effective habit involves commenting on or engaging with your connections' social media posts.
What is regular online interaction/engagement?
This simple but powerful action shows you're fully present - it involves maintaining eye contact and putting away your phone.
What is giving someone your undivided attention?
This mindset encourages you to ask 'How might we...?' instead of getting stuck on 'But we can't because...
What is Reframing?
This form of networking involves giving back to your community while meeting like-minded individuals.
What is volunteering?
Sharing these upcoming community or industry happenings helps keep your network informed of valuable opportunities.
What are events, books, or tickets?
This formal request can help advance your career and requires someone who knows your work well.
What is asking for a reference?
Instead of offering advice right away, this listening technique involves asking gentle follow-up questions to help someone explore their thoughts.
What is asking illuminating questions?
This mindset means you're interested in everything, constantly asking questions and learning from every experience, even failures.
What is Curiosity?
Often held annually in your industry, these large gatherings provide opportunities to meet numerous professionals in your field.
What are conferences or conventions?
This networking action creates a bridge between two people who could benefit from knowing each other.
What is connecting people in your network?
When facing a crucial career decision, this specific type of guidance request can strengthen your network connection.
What is asking for advice?
"Brooks says this conversational skill is like 'making guests feel at home' - you help others feel comfortable sharing their story."
What is creating a safe space?
This mindset emphasizes that you can't figure it out by thinking about it - you have to get out there and try things.
What is Bias to Action or ‘Try Stuff’?
This ask for a dedicated time commitment shows serious interest in learning from someone more experienced in your field
What is asking someone to be your mentor?
This type of relationship building goes beyond professional connections to create deeper, lasting bonds.
What is building friendship outside of work?
This networking request involves asking someone to facilitate a connection with a valuable new contact.
What is asking for an introduction?
Brooks uses this term for conversation habits that make others feel smaller, including interrupting, fixing, or one-upping their stories.
What is a diminisher?
This mindset reminds us that we get better outcomes when we openly engage with others and let go of the myth of the lone genius.
What is Radical Collaboration?
This networking approach involves a mutually beneficial relationship where you help guide someone with less experience.
What is mentoring others?
When you share this with your network, it both updates them on your progress and demonstrates your capabilities.
What is sending updates about your achievements or proud moments?
Sending one of these during holidays or to mark professional milestones helps maintain warm relationships.
What is a personalized congratulatory note or card?
Brooks describes this as 'actively creating wider spaces' in conversation so quiet people can step forward and share.
What is making room for others to speak?
This mindset involves tuning in to your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to understand what's working and what isn't in your life.
What is Awareness?