Networking for people who hate networking

Forging business connections doesn’t have to be so bad. Make it part of something you’re already doing, rekindle old friendships, and don’t neglect the people around you.

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Ugh, networking.

It’s something we know we should do, but for most of us it’s about as much fun as a dental procedure.

Networking can improve your job prospects, increase brand awareness and broaden your circle of influence, but the notion of enduring hours of awkward chatter with strangers can be daunting. It’s often the last thing you feel like doing after a long day of work.

However, there is good news.  Networking is no longer the drudgery it once was. The whole concept has changed, and you needn’t dread it.

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Try these five approaches to make networking a breeze instead of a stressful squeeze:

Make it part of something you’re already doing. You don’t have to be at a conference, sporting a branded lanyard and swilling mediocre wine to forge relevant business connections.

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