If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times (just ask Toby and Amy), “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.”
I firmly believe it. I’ve seen it in action far too many times.
But in order for it to be “who you know,” you have to know someone.
Yeah, it’s kind of a prerequisite.
I am horrible at networking. It scares me. To death. I really, really have a hard time doing it. And I really have a great deal of admiration for the folks who can do it. I have complete awe for the folks who do it well.
So what if you’re stuck in a gig that won’t ever get better, and you need to formulate an exit plan? You’re going to need to know somebody my friend.
Come along, gentle reader. This will be good for both of us.
Penelope Trunk is going to let us in on “Networking for people who hate networking.” Among her tips:
- You don’t have to be a manipulator.
- You don’t have to be funny and clever. [Yeah, you and I are both breathing a sigh of relief there.]
- You don’t have to network when you’re job-hunting.
- You don’t have to be agreeable. [I think you’re wrong. Oh wait, I was just making a point.]
- You don’t have to get off the sofa. [Wha…? I’m already doing it?]
Oh so now you’re interested? Soldier on, my soon-to-be-the-envy-of-LinkedIn networker.
More than a living 
I would actually say it’s who you know that thinks they know what you know. You know?
And I would add that, though not mandatory, it does help if you are a little bit funny or clever. Just like a good “after work drinks companion”, it helps if you make an effort to be engaging and a little interested in the person you are meeting with.
Don’t make networking work – try to find fun in the catching up and comparing notes on the work-a-day world.
Its who u know, who know some1 who knows some1 else…..hehe. Its a small world after all. Personal relationships is work but is a good worthwhile investment!!!!