How Do I Make Networking a More Enjoyable Activity?

Well first off you want to make sure you understand what networking is, which at its core is providing value to others. Most people feel good when they can help others out, so seek out people you can help, not just people you want to help you. Networking has to be a two-way relationship. And you never know how someone you help, can help you down the line.

Networking should not be viewed as a chore, but as an opportunity. This is your chance to meet new people, provide value to others, and expand your own opportunities both professionally and personally.

Set goals for yourself when it comes to networking but remember that setting a goal for an “amount” of people you want to meet is a bad goal. You want to focus on the quality of your relationships. You want to have people in your network you can rely on and that can rely on you. Plus, you want people who you generally enjoy talking to. A good relationship should not only be one where favors are fulfilled. It should be one where you don’t mind grabbing a cup of coffee from time to time just to chat and catch up.

Make it a great day and remember to always NetWorkWise.

This article was originally published on Quora.