Are you an entrepreneur, working tirelessly to grow your business, navigating never ending learning and challenges? A working parent, juggling daycare pickups, unexpected illnesses, and the endless quest to get to work on time? Or perhaps a seasoned professional who’s about to make a total career change?
Whatever your circumstances, you know how crucial it is to have a support network that truly gets what you’re going through. Whether you're looking for like-minded entrepreneurs who get the ups and downs of business ownership, fellow working parents who share your daily struggles and triumphs, or professionals navigating a career pivot, finding a circle that resonates with your experiences is essential.
So, let’s be honest. Is your current network meeting your needs?
If you're feeling disconnected or that your circle no longer aligns with your aspirations and goals, it might be time to reassess and expand.
But let’s face it—venturing into new social circles can stir up a mix of excitement and anxiety. The thought of stepping into new settings, where initial interactions may feel awkward and the process of forming genuine connections seems slow, can be intimidating.
How can you make new connections, easily?
Firstly, consider who you’re looking for. Are you seeking like-minded individuals who share your same challenges? A mentor? Someone who can help you build a specific skill set? An introduction to a particular industry?
Then, consider where you might find them. Here are some ideas:
Professional organisations and industry conferences. These are prime opportunities to meet peers and potential mentors in your field. Look for local chapters, industry-specific groups, and major conferences related to your profession.
Meetup groups and networking events. Take a look at meetup.com or Eventbrite—they offer a variety of events tailored to different interests and professional goals.
Community centres and local clubs. Check out local bulletin boards, community centres, or online community pages for upcoming events.
Volunteering opportunities. Getting involved in local charities or non-profits not only helps you give back but also connects you with like-minded individuals. Volunteering can be a great way to meet people who share your values and interests.
Educational courses in workshops. Enrol in things that interest you, whether they’re related to your career or personal hobbies. This can be a way to meet people with similar passions while learning something new.
Alumni associations and networking groups: Tap into your school or university’s alumni network. Many institutions offer networking events, reunions, and professional development opportunities for their graduates.
Local businesses and trade shows. These events often attract professionals looking to make new connections and explore new opportunities.
Social media and online forums. There are so many online communities and groups (e.g. LinkedIn, Facebook) which offer a great opportunity to connect with others locally and globally.
Now that you’ve got a plan, it’s critical to understand how to approach these situations to get the most out of them.
Here are two evidence-based strategies for making new connections:
(1) Assume people like you.
Dr Marisa Franco's—psychologist, professor, and sought-after friendship and belonging expert—advice is both simple and powerful.
When you enter new social situations, whether it's a networking event, a professional group, or a casual meet-up, approach it with the mindset that people are likely to welcome and appreciate you. This positive assumption can make you appear more approachable and friendly, encouraging others to respond in kind. It also helps to alleviate some of the self-imposed pressure that often accompanies social interactions.
Her advice is related to the Liking Gap; a psychological phenomenon where we tend to underestimate how much others like and appreciate us. And if you’re naturally self-critical, this gap can be even more pronounced, making it essential to remind yourself that others are more receptive than you might think!
(2) Show up.
There’s another psychological phenomena that can work in your favour – the Mere Exposure Effect. It suggests that we tend to develop a preference for things simply because they’re familiar. This means that the more you expose yourself to a group or a social setting, the more others will begin to warm up to you, even if interactions start off minimal.
For instance, if you join a networking group, simply being a consistent presence can foster familiarity and trust. You don’t need to be the most outgoing person; just showing up regularly can make you a familiar face and gradually increase your likability among the group.
And finally, some additional things to consider:
Start small. Choose more intimate settings where interactions can feel less intimidating.
Set (realistic) networking goals. Define clear objectives for your social interactions.
Leverage your existing connections. Ask friends, colleagues, or acquaintances to introduce you to someone new. A warm introduction can ease the initial awkwardness and provide a shared point of reference.
Create a social calendar. Schedule regular activities. By consistently placing yourself in social settings, you increase your chances of meeting new people.
Follow-up. After meeting someone new, send a follow-up message or arrange a casual catch-up. This can help solidify the initial connection and pave the way for a deeper relationship.
Building a network doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. By assuming others will like you and maintaining a regular presence in your chosen circle, you can make new connections more naturally and comfortably. Remember, the key is persistence and a positive mindset. Approach each interaction with openness and confidence, and you’ll find that expanding your network becomes a more rewarding and less stressful endeavour.
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