Networking Naturally

Networking Naturally Program: How To Get the Results You Want

I can't remember the last time I heard someone say, "I love networking and I'm good at it!"  In this economy, smart folks know that networking is a proven way to find a job, keep a job, and bring in new business.

For most people, great networking doesn't come naturally. In fact, ask yourself the following questions:

• Does the word, “networking,” conjure up images of sterile ballrooms, suits with name tags, and skimpy appetizers? 
• Does the thought of attending a networking event make your palms sweaty and increase your pulse?
• Do you worry about how to start a conversation with a stranger and keep it going without making a fool of yourself?  Do you think to yourself, “Who would want to talk with me?”
• Do you connect with strangers easily but never seem to be able to leverage those connections? 
• Do you have piles of business cards that collect dust in a corner of your office?
• Does online networking feel like a "can of worms" that you aren't sure you want to open up?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, the Networking Naturally Program can help.

Photo by shashiBellamkonda

Now ask yourself the following:

• Do you have friends, colleagues, and acquaintances who continually bring you ideas, perspectives, opportunities, encouragement, and wisdom?
• Does your online presence give you another way to meet the people you want and need to meet?
• Can you easily ask your network for help, whether it’s the answer to a simple question or an introduction to someone you want to meet or advice on a tough problem?  
• Are you continually building and adding value to your network?

If you answered no to the above questions, the Networking Naturally Program can help turn a no into a yes.

Successful networking is a process of deepening relationships, initiated through curiosity, unattached to outcome, guided by energy, and driven by the possibility of what can be created with another human being. It unfolds over time and rewards us with allies, collaborators, clients, and better lives.

Photo by shashiBellamkonda

“I loved the Networking Naturally Program.  For a shy, new business owner, it was wonderful. Made me feel much more confident! Thanks!”

Amy Lemen

www.ALLInOneMarketingUSA.com

The Networking Naturally Program: What Is It?

Discover a natural networking style that is key to more opportunities in a down economy. Whether you are looking for a job, charting a new course for your business or career, or simply want to improve your networking abilities, this program will help you create and nurture the connections needed to thrive in hard times.

The program consists of three webinars and a participant-only online site.

The weekly webinars are designed to build on the previous one:

• Week 1, Avoid Common Traps in Networking. We cover the foundations of great networking. If the basics are not done well, you can unknowingly sabotage your best networking efforts. We look at myths and beliefs around networking and help you create a plan to meet your professional and personal goals.

• Week 2, Create Meaningful Conversation and Develop Lasting Connections. We address the two most cited networking challenges: 1) starting a conversation with a stranger and 2) staying in touch afterwards. We also cover sticky situations as well as the etiquette and nuances of great networking.

• Week 3, In-Person + Online Networking: Put It All Together. You'll learn how social networking fits with in-person networking efforts in a world of limited time and attention. We also look at keeping momentum going, making the best use of your existing network, and continuously expanding your network.

“The Networking Naturally Program helped me think consciously about how networking is giving to others before asking for help. I highly recommend that anyone looking to hone their networking skills participate in this program--whether you think you have it mastered already or not.”

--Jenny Hightower, Manager of Alumni Relations, Johnson and Wales University

Choose from a mid-day time or an evening time to attend: 

• 10am PT/11am MT/noon CT/1pm ET 
• 4pm PT/5pm MT/6pm CT/7pm ET

REPLAYS FOR EACH WEBINAR WILL BE AVAILABLE AS PART OF REGISTRATION.

Webinars are 75 minutes in duration, consisting of 50 minutes of presentation followed by 25 minutes of Q+A.

To find out more about me (Carol Ross), check out the About Me page, where you'll find articles I've published on networking as well as my own results from networking to achieve my goals.

“All of the sessions were well-planned and included a very helpful study guide for each session.  The instructors were great about responding to questions received both during the session and those posted on the interactive web site.  The tools made available to participants are relevant and are something I intend to refer back to frequently as I continue to practice my networking.”

Krista, Northern Virginia

How Is This Program Different?

Start with Principles. Many programs focus on the steps, techniques, and tactics used in networking.  But without understanding the underlying principles, networking activity can feel like you are just going through the motions—all mechanics with no meaning. With the Networking Naturally Program, you’ll learn principles that successful networkers follow, independent of specific tools and techniques.  

Use Tools and Techniques That Work For You. Once you’ve learned the principles, we’ll look at how to apply them in any networking situation, and in a way that’s congruent with your own personality and style. Some people like to connect over lunch. Others thrive on big gatherings. Still others would rather connect online or over the phone. There is no one mix that works for everyone. But once you've learned the principles, you can choose how and where you apply them based on your personality. 

Move into Action. It's seductive to learn the theory and expect to see results, just from knowing what to do. But results come from moving into action. You will be asked to apply what you are learning to real-life networking interactions--whether it's in-person, over the phone, at a coffee shop, or online at a social networking site. We provide the motivation, support, and inspiration for you to put into practice what you are learning. 

Network With Other Participants and Learn as a Community.  You will have access to a participant-only site where you'll find out more about fellow participants and have the opportunity to network with them. The site also serves as a place to download additional course materials, as well as a place to ask questions and participate in conversations about networking situations.

“I am extremely impressed with the Networking Naturally Program.  I have trouble starting conversations with people. Your program gave me the confidence to make the move and start networking with people.  In the past couple of weeks, I have put some of the Principles of Networking Naturally to work in two networking settings. I plan to use these Principles regularly to network in a variety of settings.”

Keith, Attorney, Chicago, IL

Photo by david.orban

How Will I Benefit?

During the program, you will have the opportunity to network online with fellow participants from major universities. 

After the program, you will have a personalized plan that will cover the following:

• how to network
• networking objectives
• who to network with
• where to network (in-person and online)
• what value you bring to others
• how to articulate what you can offer to others (elevator pitch)
• questions to start a conversation with a stranger (and keep it going!)
• how to follow up and stay in touch with your network

Photo by The Consumerist

You will also be able to:

• Identify myths and beliefs that sabotage effective networking
• Put into practice underlying principles that all successful networkers follow, whether they realize it or not
• Make connections more easily to people who you value 
• Begin to integrate in-person networking with online networking
• Network with more confidence and less anxiety

“Before taking this class I thought networking was attending a one day event, or asking a friend if they’d heard anything about a job.  So I have learned a lot!  I’ve got lots of practice ahead of me.  Thanks to you, I will go forward not quite so blindly into the networking world.”

Julie Blanchet                       

Your Investment

What is it worth to you to create more opportunities, truly mutually beneficial  relationships, and better results from your networking efforts, all with less stress and more joy? Photo by ktylerconk

The Networking Naturally Program includes three 75-minute webinars and a social networking site to connect with participants from major universities. 

Cost: $149

OUR NEXT SESSION STARTS ON FEBRUARY 23 AND IS OPEN ONLY TO GRADUATES OF BUSINESS SCHOOLS (E.G., MBAS). IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING, PLEASE CONTACT CAROL [AT] MYALUMNILINK [DOT] COM.

OUR NEXT SESSION OPEN TO THE PUBLIC WILL START ON MAY 4. REGISTRATION WILL OPEN ON APRIL 1. 

“After procrastinating going to a potentially rewarding networking event for three months, I finally went AND enjoyed myself. You gave an introvert tools to be more outgoing in groups.  This Program was the very best bargain I have had in over 45 years of trainings!”

—Elizabeth Stirling, psychologist, www.elizabethstirling.com

I look forward to helping you learn to network with less stress and more joy. In the meantime, check out the Networking Resources page for valuable tips on networking.

"The Networking Naturally Program has been a worthwhile experience.  Both seasoned and novice networkers will benefit from the Networking Naturally Principles.  These principles provide a powerful framework for not only successful networking, but they can also be applied holistically in our roles as spouse, parent, friend, or colleague."

Don Nelson

Click here to see what other participants have to say about the Networking Naturally Program. 

Have questions? Contact me: carol [at] myalumnilink [dot] com or 303.666.0580. I'm in the Mountain Time Zone (Denver). 

Success Stories from NNP Participants

I'm always delighted when I hear how the Networking Naturally Program is impacting participants' lives, sometimes months later. I received the following email from a participant in the April 2009 program

Just writing to thank you for your advice during the Networking Naturally Program.  Had an amazing chain of experiences this past month.  Started November with being laid off from my full-time job as a symphony musician.  But two weeks ago, a friend mentioned that she heard of a possible part-time teaching job might at a nearby school. She suggested that I apply.  
After a quick investigation, I learned that the application deadline had passed.

I sent in a resume anyway with a cover-letter version of my best "elevator pitch" and with a mention of my friend as a reference.  Just a week after speaking with my friend, I was offered the position -- it turned out to be full time and higher paying than the job I lost!

The points that we discussed in class really helped me write a great cover letter and nail the interview. Thank you for making a great difference for me personally during a very challenging time.

With Warmest Aloha,

Dan Padilla

Orchestra Instructor

University of Hawaii Laboratory School

And another story from a participant in the Oct 2009 NNP session:

The Networking Naturally Program was a terrific investment for me.  I shifted my belief from “networking is horrible” to “networking is being friendly”.

Recently, I saw a job opening for associate executive director at our local YMCA. I did several things I had never done before as a result of NNP. First, I called a friend and simply asked if he knew anyone at the YMCA. Unbelievably, he knew the executive director and was happy to put a “worth a look” bug in his ear.

Second, when I ran into people I knew, I didn’t just say “fine” when people asked me how I was. I would mention that I had applied for this job. Without asking, I had several people saying, “I belong to the Y! I’ll put a good word in for you!”

Third, while waiting in the lobby at my first interview, I began a conversation with one of the employees. With a few simple questions, he started talking about himself and the job. When my interview was over, he said good bye to me as if we were old friends, right in front of the interviewer, showing how easily I got along with people.

The bottom line is that between my qualifications and the variety of people putting in a good word for me, I got the job. Now I use the natural approach to networking every day, and the number of smiles and people willing to help is astounding. It all started with the attitude shift I learned from NNP.

Lise Belton

Associate Executive Director

Salinas Community YMCA

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/lise-belton/4/b22/263

Both of these stories are pretty inspirational, aren't they? A hearty thank you to Dan and Lise for writing and reporting how the NNP has made a significant difference in their lives. The stories mean a lot to me.

If you are curious as to what made the difference for Dan in his cover letter and interview, or you resonate with what Lise did during her job search, consider taking the Networking Naturally Program. Our next public offering starts on May 4, 2010. The principles we teach are simple but powerful.....

Registration Now Open for October 2009 Networking Naturally Program

Hey, it's been a long summer of heads down, nose to the grindstone work to prepare for the October Networking Naturally Program (NNP). The program starts on Oct 27 and continues until Nov 10.

Improvements from April:

• My co-developer of the NNP curriculum, Ellen Ingraham, and I have made some fabulous enhancements to the curriculum--more concise (3 weeks instead of 4) with an emphasis on having an actionable networking plan for each registrant by the end of the program.  
• You will have the opportunity to network and learn alongside alumni from six major US universities.
• We've rounded out the team with additional support, before, during, and after the teleseminars. Our calls will be more interactive, your email reminders will be more memorable, and any technical glitches will be a thing of the past. My thanks to Krista, Laura, and Suzan (yes, smart women rock!) for the professionals that you are.

Now's your chance to take advantage of early bird registration, where you'll save $40 off the regular price, but only until Sept 25.

Here's a preview of the kind of information you'll get from the Networking Naturally Program:

My thanks to the alumni office at the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business for creating the YouTube video. I'm looking forward to having their alumni participate.

See below for details on registering. I hope you join me in October!

What Participants Are Saying About the Networking Naturally Program

What Small Business Owners Are Saying

“I have enjoyed this seminar very much and received tremendous value. I'm implementing in an almost unconscious way what you have been teaching and delightful surprises are happening in my professional and personal life. My practice is picking up. I have reconnected with an old friend from 12 years ago and we are talking seriously about expanding our businesses in ways that include each other. Thank you!”

Joanna Poppink

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

www.eatingdisorderrecovery.com

"The Networking Naturally program started me thinking much more positively about networking. Shifting away from the "transaction" model allows me to feel successful even if I've just made a nice connection with someone, and nothing more. Being reminded that relationships develop over time and lead in unexpected directions takes the pressure off of having to or trying to make something happen."

Marie Carija
Owner, MAC Integral Design
www.macintegraldesign.com

"Before the Networking Naturally program came along, I thought networking skills were something you had to be born with. They didn't always come naturally to me, even though I am in the communications field. I was thrilled to learn that networking is something that can be learned and systematized. Once you harness the power of networking, it is extremely effective. Plus, it brings great people into your life!

Carol Ross has done everyone a huge service by preparing this program so thoughtfully. She did an outstanding job of breaking down and explaining each step of the process. The workbook materials were very helpful, as were the interactive elements of the program. I would recommend this to anyone in any industry. I'm happy to have Carol in my network!"

Lisa Jevens

Writing, Editing, and Marketing Communications

www.jevensinc.com

"I just wanted to thank you. I've had occasion to try some of your ideas over the last few weeks. Really a help. To my surprise, I have two new clients, who will possibly also become friends (I hope, I hope!), and the possibility of two additional. And it all feels natural."

Lynn Pearson
Lynn Pearson Graphic Art Services
www.pearsonandgraham.com

“I loved the Networking Naturally Program.  For a shy, new business owner, it was wonderful. Made me feel much more confident! Thanks, Carol!”

Amy Lemen

www.ALLInOneMarketingUSA.com

What Business Professionals Are Saying

“The Networking Naturally Program has shown me that networking is not "going into a room where I know no one to do nothing" but rather an opportunity--in any social or business gathering--to get to know people and have them get to know me.

A few weeks ago, I exercised my new networking skills on a train that was already late and promising to become even later. The man seated next to me said that he would be late for a medical tradeshow downtown, so I mentioned that I worked for the American Dental Association and asked if he had ever attended a dental tradeshow. He answered "no, but that is just the type of market that I would like to explore." We exchanged business cards and both discovered more about other businesses than we had known before.“

Margaret Ring Gillock
American Dental Association

“At first I was somewhat skeptical about signing up the Networking Naturally program, thinking that it might be a 101 introduction.  After attending the first session, I was relieved and excited.  The program intertwined fundamental networking principles with cow analogies, which made the learning memorable in addition to fun.  The time allotted for real life examples was very valuable.  I was able to relate to other participants’ experience as well as hear different perspectives about how to get back on track when things went astray.  I highly recommend this course to mid career professionals who are life time learners and who want a refresher course.” 

Bonnie H. Chan, CPA, CIA, CISA
Director of Finance, Sara Lee Corporation
MBA, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University
MPA, McCombs School of Business, The University of Texas at Austin

“I am extremely impressed with the Networking Naturally Program.  I have trouble starting conversations with people. Your program gave me the confidence to make the move and start networking with people.  In the past couple of weeks, I have put some of the Principles of Networking Naturally to work in two networking settings. I plan to use these Principles regularly to network in a variety of settings.”

Keith, Attorney, Chicago, IL

"The Networking Naturally Program was very well done.  I did try out the new techniques I've learned over the past few weeks, particularly at a career fair event last week. I found it enlightening to "listen" to the interviewers and to ask them questions about themselves, rather than just spewing all about myself.

I've also learned that networking can be as easy as breathing, I can do it wherever I am. If I find an event that I'm truly interested in attending, then I can try better to treat that as being natural as well because of my interest in whatever the subject matter is.

I feel more enlightened on this topic and not as fearful of networking as I was before. I feel that I'm armed with better tools that I can go out and use now. Thanks for offering the Networking Naturally Program!"

John Bartucci

Product Management Professional
Kellogg School of Management, Class of 1998
www.linkedin.com/in/jbartucci

"Thank you for the seminar. I was quite skeptical at the beginning, but
at the conclusion, surprised myself by my answers to the self-assessment. I was delighted to see there had been a shift in my opinions about networking."

Kimberly S. Owens
Associate General Counsel
TIAA-CREF

“Very insightful program!  Great tips you can implement as you progress in your career and social life. From a broad perspective, I learned a "strategy" of networking and gained confidence by realizing some of the challenges are common challenges for everyone. This course is really making a difference in people's lives!”

Sudip Bose, MD, FACEP, FAAEM
Emergency Medicine Physician, Advocate Christ Medical Center
Associate Clinical Professor in Emergency Medicine
Former Major, US Army,  www.SudipBose.com

"The Networking Naturally Program has been a worthwhile experience.  Both seasoned and novice networkers will benefit from the 14 Networking Principles.  These principles provide a powerful framework for not only successful networking, but they can also be applied holistically in our roles as spouse, parent, friend, or colleague."

Don Nelson

“As a former school teacher turned lawyer, I have not yet figured out how to best utilize my skills and knowledge to work in a meaningful way in this second profession.  I realized that networking skills are a vital part of accomplishing this task, and that is what prompted me to sign up for the Networking Naturally Program.  I have not become a good networker yet, but I do feel that I learned some tools from the Program that will help me.  Thanks again!”

John Chadwick
Employment and Civil Rights Lawyer
La Grange Park, IL

“The Networking Naturally program addresses the challenges of networking on several fronts. First, what’s going on in our minds when we engage in networking. Secondly, by providing practical tools and practice that help build the confidence needed to network effectively. This program has allowed me to turn chance encounters into opportunities, as well as enriching my life through the new relationships and interesting people I have met. Networking is a permanent and valuable part of my life.”

Laura Drury
www.inspiredleadership.typepad.com
www.linkedin.com/in/lauradrury

"Prior to taking this course, I would not have described myself as someone who was afraid or shy about networking....just not terribly experienced or practiced at it.  Having recently left a job that I held for 24 years, I felt that I needed some help with making the most of my networking skills and learning to create opportunities for networking.

 
I got all that I hoped for and more with Networking Naturally!!  I learned that networking can be done at any time, in any place, with anyone....and that many people have remarkable stories about the wonderful things that can occur with good networking!!  I believe I've already had positive results, not only in my job search, but with personal relationships, which is an added bonus!
 
The best "kernel" I took away from Networking Naturally is to always remember, with any interaction, to approach it from the perspective of  "what can I do to help YOU?".  This perspective helps you to learn more about others and enriches every connection that takes place. VERY POWERFUL!!
 
I highly recommend Carol Ross and Networking Naturally!"'

Nancy Gallagher

Commercial Real Estate Professional

"As a professional career coach, helping people improve their networking skills is one of my central tasks – and one I thoroughly enjoy. In fact, I’m always learning about networking (both online and face-to-face) by reading and discussing it with colleagues. So, when I learned about the Networking Naturally Program, from Carol, I realized this would be an opportunity to learn from one of the best networkers and coaches I know!

What I most loved about this program is the emphasis on becoming more of a “natural” at networking by understanding and applying 14 principles in a way that works with your own personal style. As well, I love the fact that Carol and Ellen have provided ongoing resources and established a learning community – a key step in helping people with their ongoing development of this key set of skills for success at work and in life!

I’m glad this will be offered again! This is a program I highly recommend"

Walter Akana

Threshold Consulting

www.threshold-consulting.com

“Thank you both so much for the Networking Naturally Program! The discussions changed my attitude and I feel more comfortable now approaching people and continuing the conversation. I did not realize how much my perceptions have changed until after I had to complete the self-assessment. I feel confident recommending it to friends. Thank you!”

Vessi Kapoulian, International Finance, Los Angeles, CA

“The Networking Naturally Program delivers the "How To"s of networking in an up-to-date and easily recalled format.

The "cow" metaphor used by the Networking Naturally Program offers easy-to-remember, actionable guidelines for networking.  The Program speaks to the spectrum of personality types from extroverted sales folks to reclusive engineers.  Real-time coaching with participants offers reminders of how everyone can benefit from reviewing their networking habits. 

Professionally, I renewed my commitment to utilize networking skills as a regular part of my professional life, rather than just during a position search. 

Personally, I found it beneficial to remember that networking is a two-way street:  Listening and giving pave the way to successful networking. 

If you need a jumpstart to your networking efforts, the Networking Naturally Program is for you.”

Chris Rademacher
Strategy & Product Development Professional
www.LinkedIn.com/in/ChrisRademacher

"I enjoyed the Networking Naturally Program.  I picked-up several important tips that I have been using now that have helped me become much better at networking.  Doing more giving, reaching out, for example.  I even sent two articles to a contact at a major consumer food company, which seemed to help foster the relationship.  All good stuff.“

Lynne Nigro
Marketing Professional
http://www.linkedin.com/in/lnigro

“Before taking this class I thought networking was attending a one day event, or asking a friend if they’d heard anything about a job.  So I have learned a lot!  I’ve got lots of practice ahead of me.  Thanks to you, I will go forward not quite so blindly into the networking world.”

Julie Blanchet

“Networking Naturally provided the insight and direction I needed to realize that it's O.K. to talk to strangers in person and online.  I'm listening to the moos and following Carol's other principles, finding it easier to reach out to more people professionally, socially and purposefully.”

Bridget Wright
Director of Training
First National Bank of LaGrange (Illinois)

“All of the sessions were well-planned and included a very helpful study guide for each session.  The instructors were great about responding to questions received both during the session and those posted on the interactive web site.  The tools made available to participants are relevant and are something I intend to refer back to frequently as I continue to practice my networking.”

Krista, Northern Virginia

What Young Graduates Are Saying

“I've always thought of myself as a good networker, but it wasn't until I enrolled in the Networking Naturally Program that I was able to objectively evaluate how good of a networker I was. Through Carol and Ellen's lessons and coaching, I was able to go from being a good networker to a great networker. I now feel comfortable asking for help, connecting one contact to another, and most importantly, seeking out an opportunity to network whenever possible. I strongly recommend this program for people in any industry or profession who sincerely want to improve their networking skills.”

Gregory Lane
Student, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine

Networking Naturally Program in The News

A case study of networking in action: The Networking Naturally Program is being marketed by Northwestern University, my alma mater, to their alumni, as a way to provide career development support.

Cathy Stembridge, the executive director of the alumni association for Northwestern University is interviewed for a NYT article on networking and refers to a "new four-part Web series with classes such as, "How Do I Develop Lasting Connections?""  That's the third teleseminar of the Networking Naturally Program on Etiquette, Systems, and Structures. Swweeeet...

The New York Times article, "On the Job, But on the Lookout for Work", gives examples of both online and in-person networking. Our fourth teleseminar on April 29 is titled, "Integrating Online and In-Person Networking: Putting It All Together."

I hope you'll decide to join us for the rest of the journey. Replays are available as part of registration, including the recordings of yesterday's teleseminar on myths and beliefs.

What's Your Networking IQ?

Check out a fun quiz that Ellen Ingraham, my co-presenter for the evening sessions, and I created, based on our research and an informal survey of over 200 Northwestern University alumni.

Signing Up? You'll Be In Good Company

Registration for the Networking Naturally Program is going like gangbusters!  We have about 100 people signed up for the evening session and another 175 signed up for the mid-day session. It's not too late to join! Our first teleseminar is on April 8. 

My goal is not only to help you improve your networking skills but to also create a community of "natural networkers" who share best practices and support and encourage each other. When you sign up, you'll also have access to a private blog for participants of this program. There, you'll have the opportunity to connect with others, contribute to discussions, and download additional resources.

I hope that you'll be able to be a part of this learning experience!

Stories of Networking

Just posted on my blog, Ordinary Life, Extraordinary Living, results of networking, throughout my career as an employee and a small biz owner. See Networking Naturally or How I Made My Own Luck.

You Aren't Alone

Recently, I attended a networking event which was covered by a Denver television station, with the headline, "Geek Girls Band Together to Beat Recession." I don't think they were referring to safety in numbers (although they could have been.) I do think they were referring to the human need to connect with others for advice, support, opportunities, and encouragement, especially when something as pervasive as a recession hits. No one wants to face this alone.