“Your network is your relationships. It's a summary of all of your connections. It's a living organism,” explains co-host Denyse. People often shy away from networking, saying that it is too difficult or that they do not even have a network. In truth, people usually just do not know where to start. Everyone has a network, whether they are actively trying to build one or not. Today, co-hosts Amy and Denyse share three tips for networking like a pro.   The first step to networking is defining your pre-existing network. Write a list of everyone in your network, starting with the lowest hanging fruit or the easiest picks like your family members and closest friends. Even if you have not spoken to someone in 10 years, they can still be a valuable part of your network. Consider reaching out through a text or e-mail to start rebuilding that connection. Once you have your list, figure out what environment allows you to show up as your best self and put yourself into situations where you can really shine.    Your network is a collection of all your connections from both your personal and professional life. It may seem intimidating to put yourself out there and grow your network, but it does not have to be! Not all networking has to be stuffy 9 to 5 coffee meetings. Instead, choose environments that feel most comfortable to you and where you can really present your best self.   Actionable Tips Define your network- create a list of all your connections, starting with the closest personal connections like family and best friends. Put yourself into situations where you can present your best self and really shine. Prepare your story ahead of time and think about how you can contribute value to the conversation. Open conversations with a question about the other person.    Quotes “Your network is your relationships. It's a summary of all of your connections. It's a living organism.” (3:51-3:58 | Denyse) “70 to 80% of people find jobs through their network.” (7:52-7:55 | Denyse)  “Nothing is going to happen, whether it's creating business relationships, finding a job, finding a career coaching person, unless you are open to showing up and taking the necessary steps and putting in the work.” (36:28-36:46 | Amy) “Don't wait until you don't have a position or you've opened your business to start networking and trying to connect with people and building the people that surround you. Start it early, so that you're not just drowning before you even have a chance to get started.” (44:59-45:18 | Amy)   Links: Networking Guide & Exercise - Download below: https://www.midlifeatthemailbox.com/networking-guide-and-template   https://www.amazon.com/Helpful-Guide-Life-Careers-Networking/dp/173294590X Amy & Denyse LOVE to network.  Follow us on Instagram @midlifeatthemailbox and personally @AmyLAlex28 and @DenyseRabbat.   Tag yourself listening to our episodes, make us laugh with your midlife moment or share your favorite episode of our show with your friends on Instagram and we will share it back to our community! #midlifemoment   Do you enjoy our podcast? We’d love your help in growing our community. Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Midlife at the Mailbox on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!   One last note, both Amy & Denyse offer coaching services. Are you ready to promote your business or yourself? What about just a heads up that we have dropped a new episode? Sign up to receive emails from Midlife at the Mailbox. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/630a92cd2812b898e99a8f06   Thanks for listening, see you at the Mailbox! Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm