Networking Archetypes:
There are many aspects of strategic networking – whether you are building and strengthening your connections, whether you are targeting specific individuals or whether you are “harvesting” and looking for assistance amongst your connections.
Whilst I will always advocate for a strategic approach to creating and maintaining a strong, professional network as it is both hugely important as well as beneficial – for your leadership and for your career development – I will also advocate for approaching it with humour and having fun!
What is a way to have fun?
If you find that networking events are daunting and a bit like social jungles – then here is a suggestion: – start observing the distinct species navigating the terrain in their own peculiar ways.
Let me share a few networking archetypes that I have come across. They have made me smile. You can meet more archetypes in my forthcoming book.
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After a while and after a bit of observation, I am sure you can several more of your own favourites.
A. The Connections Craver:
This individual keeps conversations short and move quickly from one conversation to the next. The ultimate goal is quantity over quality. He or she will shake your hand enthusiastically, but before you have pronounced your name, they start scanning the room and will swiftly move on.
B. The Humble Bragger:
This person has perfected the art of appearing modest while subtly making sure to mention their achievements. They hold court and seek to impress while pretending they don’t mean to. They just casually mention their latest award or how exhausting the preparation was for their TED Talk or when they were last interviewed on TV. Showing an interest in you? Not to be expected
D. The Charismatic Connector:
This character is the master of strategic etiquette – the master connector who knows everyone worth knowing. They work the room with precision and a plan: – introducing the right people and facilitating deals – they make things happen – all while subtly keeping score. If they like you, you may be invited to be part of their exclusive network.
D. The Confessional Conversationalist:
What begins as small talk with this person quickly develops into a therapy session and you are roped in as the therapist. In their view, the event is less about networking and more about their external processing. You will hear about their existential doubts, workplace grievances and family related matters. They are over-sharers – and often talk non-stop.
E. The Observant Owl:
This character may arrive alone, stand in a corner or at a slight distance and surveys the room like a seasoned detective. Very often this is an introvert and unlike extroverts, they operate on their own. They wait for an opening, quietly slipping into select conversations where they offer deep insights and sharp observations. For them it is quality over quantity. They may only have a conversation with a handful of people, but every interaction will be meaningful.
Have you met any of these characters?
Which one do you think you are—or aspire to be?
Perhaps you have made different observations and have collected your own suite of specific networking characters?
Do share!
Want to know more? Here is a link to how to build your network capital, another article about Strategic Networking >
