As far back as the Bronze Age, it seems that humans were networking.
In 2012, scientists from Cambridge University discovered a “prehistoric version of Facebook” used by Bronze Age tribes to communicate with each other.
They studied thousands of images scrawled across two granite rock sites in Russia and Sweden, that they believe resemble the social networks we use today. Between the two sites, there are 2,500 drawings of animals, humans, boats, and hunting parties.
The researchers explain that people went back to these locations over the course of many years to make drawings and respond to other drawings. People would share their emotions and give “stamps” of approval to other contributions. There was a kind of call and response between different packs of hunters across hundreds – even thousands – of years.
Humans Are Social Beings
These ancient drawings reinforce that Humans are social beings. Humans want to feel connected to each other. We connect for a variety of reasons – survival, friendship, community, and in our modern era – for business purposes.
Our drive to connect is so strong that I suspect that pandemic-induced isolation is one reason why the past two years have been so challenging for so many of us.
Like me, you are probably just now getting back out there and looking to renew your personal and business connections. Understandably, you might feel some anxiety and hesitation as you look to reconnect. After all, it’s probably been a while since you have attended large functions, in-person meetings, conventions, networking events, and other occasions that we used to take for granted.
Jumping Back into the Networking Pool
For over 30 years I have taken part in (and instructed) hundreds of people in the art of networking. Networking has been the key to building my business, my personal growth, and career enhancement. I am an extrovert, and I find that being with people energizes me.
But not everyone is the same. What energizes me may not energize you. You may feel hesitant to begin networking again.
The best way to overcome any hesitation or anxiety you may have is to dip your toe back into the networking environment one step at a time. For example, begin with a one-on-one lunch meeting before diving back into a large event or vendor show.
Smaller events such as local networking groups and meetings are also a good place to start. You can find events on Meetup.com, Eventbrite, or through your local Chamber of Commerce. Another strategy is to research groups on LinkedIn and focus on associations that service your target market.
Before you venture out to resume your networking activities, however, you need to formulate a strategy and be purposeful in your approach. And how to do that, my friends is the topic for my next article.
P.S. Face-to-face networking may not be for everyone and that is OK. Many events are still being held online. If you need a few pointers on effective online networking, here are useful tips that I shared in my previous article Networking Tips for the Virtual World.
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