Jenna Kimball, a recruiter at Dentsu International, transforms the often daunting world of networking into an exciting game. She shares her journey from shyness to confidence, debunking fears with practical strategies like gamifying networking and using open-ended questions. Jenna emphasizes the magic of the phrase "keep me in mind" to foster connections without pressure. The podcast reveals that third-level contacts can lead to significant opportunities, shifting networking from a self-serving task to a rewarding journey of building meaningful relationships.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Start With A Positive Mindset
Flip your mindset: assume people want to hear what you have to say before you enter networking events.
Believing you're interesting creates ease and makes conversations flow naturally.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Make Networking A Game
Turn networking into a game by setting simple challenges like talking to three people or staying 30 minutes.
Use numbers or small scary tasks to push yourself and make events fun.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Re-Engage By Systematizing Contacts
Re-engage old contacts by listing everyone you've worked with and scheduling reach-outs in batches.
Keep notes (dates, kids' names, hobbies) to personalize reconnection messages.
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"What if people actually want to talk to you?" This simple mindset shift is just one of the game-changing approaches that can transform networking from an anxiety-inducing obligation into a natural, rewarding practice.
In this conversation with recruiting expert Jenna Kimball, we tackle the common fear of awkward networking and provide practical strategies anyone can implement immediately. Jenna shares her journey from being painfully shy to confidently connecting with strangers, proving that networking skills can be developed regardless of your personality type.
The discussion reveals several powerful techniques, including how to gamify your networking approach by setting achievable challenges, ways to re-engage your existing network without feeling intrusive, and conversation prompts that create meaningful dialogue instead of awkward small talk. Perhaps most valuable is Jenna's four-word magic phrase—"keep me in mind"—which opens doors without putting pressure on either party.
We also explore the fascinating concept that third-level connections (people you barely know) often facilitate major life opportunities, from job offers to significant relationships. This insight transforms networking from a self-serving activity into an exciting opportunity to build a web of connections that might change your life in unexpected ways.
Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking clients, a job seeker looking for opportunities, or simply someone who wants to build a stronger professional community, this episode provides actionable strategies to make networking feel natural and productive. By approaching connections with genuine curiosity and a service mindset, you'll not only build a stronger network but also enjoy the process along the way.
Don't miss our upcoming workshop "Five Ways to Network Without Being Awkward" on April 23rd at 1:30pm Central Time. Sign up through the link in our show notes to attend live or receive the replay after the event.
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