I used to think networking was just for extroverts, salespeople, or people trying to land their next job. Then I learned that real networking—the kind that builds trust, opens doors, and helps people stay and grow in their careers—is just consistent, human connection.

That realization shaped everything I do now.

Today, I split my time between two worlds:

At Retention and Rewards Partners, I work with HR leaders to solve complex problems around compensation, benefits, and employee retention. I’ve led total rewards teams through M&A deals, culture transformations, open enrollments, and board-level pay strategy. But underneath all the spreadsheets and systems is one simple goal: build workplaces where people want to stay.

And as the founder of The Introverted Networker, I teach professionals how to build strong relationships—without small talk, events, or pretending to be someone they’re not. I write a weekly newsletter, lead corporate workshops, and coach people on how to connect with others in a way that feels real and doable.

My work might look different depending on the day, but it’s all connected by one belief: when people feel seen, supported, and fairly treated, they stay. And when they build trusted relationships at work, they thrive.

If you care about building workplaces where people stay and succeed—or you’re trying to grow your network in a way that actually feels good—I’d love to connect.


Here are other ways I can help you:

⇨ Sign up for my newsletter, "The Introverted Networker," to get tips to improve your networking.

⇨ Get my FREE course, "5 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network," to get the exact networking blueprint I follow every week to grow my own network.

⇨ Follow me to learn how to find new connections without going to networking events

⇨ Download my guide "15 Minute Networking"

⇨ Get my book "The Fast and Easy Guide To Networking For Introverts"

All the links for these resources are in my Featured section above!

The best way to contact me is via email: greg@gregsroche.com

Greg Roche

They don’t comment.
They don’t connect.
Then the layoff hits.

They only log into LinkedIn when it's too late.

A lot of people need to read this.

But they won't.

They aren't on LinkedIn today, 

So they won't see this post.

I search LinkedIn for people who do the same job in my area.

I try to connect so we can build a professional relationship.

I click on their profiles.

They have fewer than 500 connections.

They haven't commented or anything for years.

They've been at the same company for 8, 10, 20 years.

You know what this tells me?

They aren't networking.

They're telling themselves:

"𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗷𝗼𝗯."
"𝗜'𝗺 𝗮 𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿."
"𝗜 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗯𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲?"

They never log into LinkedIn, until:

👎The company is acquired and their role is eliminated, or
👎Their boss retires and their new boss doesn't click, or
👎A global pandemic ruins the entire industry.

Then, they:

🚫Apply for jobs online.
🚫Re-write their resume.
🚫Practice answering interview questions.

It doesn't get them a job.

They've heard they need to grow their network, but they forgot:

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸.

If you know someone who doesn't engage on LinkedIn at least once a week, tell them:

✔️They need to grow their professional network.
✔️They need to connect with people on LI.
✔️They need to do it before they need it.

Today is the right time.
Tomorrow is too late.


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I teach introverts to be confident networkers.

If you want to start networking today,

Do one of these:
✅ Subscribe to my newsletter-click link on top of the post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

I teach professionals to connect and build trust. Founder Retention and Rewards Partners. Solving retention and total rewards challenges for HR leaders who need results, not more noise. Aka: The Introverted Networker.

There’s a reason networking gets a bad reputation.
These 5 types of people explain it.

The truth is, not everyone who networks does it well.

Some people give networking a bad name.

They turn what should be about relationships into a transaction.

Here are five types I see most often:

𝟭. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁 Shows up only when they need something, like a job, referral, or favor. Then disappears.

𝟮. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗻 Keeps score. “If I give you something, I expect something back.” Networking isn’t math. It’s trust.

𝟯. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗿 Uses every conversation as a stage to talk about themselves. People leave feeling unseen and unheard.

𝟰. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁 Starts strong. Sends a message. Has coffee once. Then disappears. Connection isn’t built in one interaction.

𝟱. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 Measures success by how many contacts they have instead of how many they know. A full contact list isn’t the same as a real network.

If networking feels awkward or fake, it’s probably because you’ve run into one of these.

Real networking isn’t about collecting, pitching, or asking.

It’s about consistency, curiosity, and giving before you get.

P.S. - Thanks to Craig Davis, The King of LinkedIn Comments. His comment on yesterday's post inspired this one. Not following him? You should be!


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to join the mission to change the way the world feels about networking,

Do one of these:
✅ Subscribe to my newsletter-click link on top of the post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

Your network gets you hired.
Not your resume.

What everyone thinks it takes to get a job:
• Snappy elevator pitch
• Professionally written resume
• Attention-grabbing cover letter
• Impressive follow-up thank you letter
• Unique answers to all the interview questions

What most people are missing:
• A vibrant, professional network, that's
• Committed to introducing one another to
• Opportunities and connections that are mutually beneficial

If you're focused on the first set of bullet points without the second,

You're not going to get the results you want.

Spend 80% of your job search on the second set and 20% on the first.

Not sure how?

1. Send your former co-workers an email or a LI message saying, "I thought of you today and realized we haven't spoken in a while. How have you been?"

2. As your get responses, turn these online interactions into real world conversations.

3. Ask people about themselves and listen for opportunities to help.

4. Figure out what you can give. Give advice, recommendations, or introductions.

5. Create a target list of companies or people to whom you want to be introduced.

6. Give this list to your connections to make it easy for them to help you meet someone new.

7. When your connection introduces you to someone new, go back to step 2 and repeat.

This is The Connection Loop.
This is how you network.

It takes time.
Start today.


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

If you want to become a more confident networker,

Do one of these:
✅ Hit "View my newsletter" at the top of this post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

From fired to founder: how one layoff taught me the most important lesson of my career.

In the fall of 2012, my boss walked into my office and said: 
“I’m eliminating your position.”

I didn’t know it in the moment,
But, my life would never be the same.

In the following weeks, a lot happened.
I prepared to leave the company where I worked for the past nine years.

I also realized I had no network to help me find a job.

In the process of finding my next job, 

I learned how to network.

And after I started my next job, I kept networking.

Over the next 13 years, I grew my network with small, daily and weekly actions.

• I started teaching other people how to do it
• I started a newsletter about it
• I wrote a book about it

When I started my own company, Retention and Rewards Partners, I tapped into my network to find clients.

Everything I have in my career today is a result of my network.
It is the most valuable asset I have.

But, if my boss hadn’t fired me that day, 
I never would've learned this lesson, 

And I wouldn't have been able to share it with you.

P.S. - If you have been recently laid off, I know it's a struggle. It's happened to me twice.

But, you're likely to end up in a better situation than the one you left.

My DMs are open if you need help or advice.

You’re networking like everyone else.
Which is why it’s not working.

Most people think there's one way to network.

But after teaching thousands of people how to build real connections,

I’ve learned there are different 𝘵𝘺𝘱𝘦𝘴 of networkers.

And each one struggles for a different reason.

Here are five I see most often:

𝟭. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 They’ve been laid off or fear it’s coming. They know relationships matter but don’t know where to start again.

𝟮. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 They do great work, but no one outside their immediate team knows it. Their network has stalled inside their own company.

𝟯. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿-𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 They manage others but want to create stronger connection and trust across teams. They care about culture but feel alone driving it.

𝟰. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 They’re highly skilled, think physicians, lawyers, engineers, but their work leaves little time for peer connection. It’s lonely at the top.

𝟱. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 They’re early in their career and eager to learn, but unsure how to reach out or what to say.

Each one needs a different approach to networking.

Knowing which one you are will help you focus your efforts to get the networking results you're looking for.

In my latest issue of 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘳, I explain these types in detail.

And help you figure out which one you are.

Which kind of networker are you?


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to become a more confident networker,

Do one of these:
✅ Hit "View my newsletter" at the top of this post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

If you think it’s too late to start networking, read this.

I get message from people all the time that say:
 "I should have started networking sooner," 

If that's you, here's my response:

There's no shame in it.

I was right there with you 13 years ago when I lost my job.

• I never reached out to people.
• I didn't stay in touch with former co-workers.
• I wasn't offering little bits of value to my network.

The same place you are right now.

And, I learned how to grow my network one small step at a time.

It wasn't easy.

At the time, I thought I'd never find my next job.

But, I kept at it.
Kept talking to people.

Finally, It paid off.

When I landed my next job, I promised myself I'd never be "under-networked" again.

I kept networking even though I didn't need a job.
It was the easiest networking I've ever done.

Now, I teach people how to network because I know how it feels to have no idea where to start.

Each time I hear from someone who says,

"I know I should have been networking. Now, I'm behind and trying to catch up,"

I see myself all those years ago.

But, I don't judge them.

I don't think,

"I've been here on LinkedIn every day for the past 4+ years talking about networking before you need it.

Where have you been?"

Ok, maybe that's the first thought I have, but it's quickly replaced with...

"Let me show you what I've learned."

So, if you're in the middle of a job search,
All I've got to say is:

"It's ok. We've all been there.
Don't lose hope. It'll get better."


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to join the mission to change the way the world feels about networking,

Do one of these:
✅ Subscribe to my newsletter-click link on top of the post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

8 years ago, on my birthday, I got a package at work:
A separation package.

I didn't get let go on my birthday.

It happened a couple of weeks earlier.

But my birthday was my last day.

The departure was amicable.
I went to work every day.

I believe, if you can, show up until the last day.
The memory people keep of you is the last one.

If you go out with your head high, in a respectful way, that's what they'll remember.

Don't ghost your co-workers.
Don't talk bad about your leaders.
Don't re-create the quitting scene from Jerry Maguire.

Even if that's what you want to do.

Three weeks after my birthday, I got another present.
I started my next role working in a larger company with more opportunity.

I activated my network when I found out I was being let go,
And quickly landed another job.

The role lead to bigger and bigger roles,
With more responsibility and money.

It allowed me to grow my credibility and savings.
It also allowed me to grow my Introverted Networker brand on LI and my newsletter.

7 years later, I launched my own company.

Who knows what would've happened if I hadn't turned in my badge and laptop on my birthday in 2017.

But my point is this:

If you're facing a job loss,
Today's end, is tomorrow's beginning.

Tomorrow, the story starts a new chapter.
It's a blank page.

You get to write whatever you want on it.

I learned this lesson when I turned 43.

And it's the best birthday gift I ever received.



I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to become a more confident networker,

Do one of these:
✅ Hit "View my newsletter" at the top of this post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

A lot of people don't believe it
But, this is the best time of the year to network. 

This is the season of gratitude and generosity.

In the U.S., Thanksgiving lands at the end of November. 
All month, we're pausing to reflect on everything we have.

We roll into December and give to others in the spirit of the religious holidays in the month.

Two mindsets:

• Gratitude
• Generosity

These are the most important mindsets in networking.

Gratitude grounds us appreciating what we have,
Which leads us to being generous with it and giving it to others.

Without these, you're networking with a scarcity mindset.

You're focused on what you need in the moment.
Not what you can give to others.

Your networking will be transactional and superficial.

When you're focused on gratitude and generosity,
You'll be thinking of others.

When we help others, we grow deeper relationships.

The power of reciprocity kicks in and what we put in the world comes back to us, often in multiples.

This time of year, more people are in the gratitude and generosity mindset.

More people are thinking in terms of abundance.

So, don't pack it in and stop connecting between now and the end of the year.

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

What are you doing today to reach out with gratitude and generosity?

This 1-page list got me more job leads than any resume ever did.

Most people sabotage their own networking without realizing it.

They show up to meetings with good intentions.
They share their story.
They bring energy.

And then they ruin the whole thing by doing one thing:
They hand over their resume.

I used to do it, too.

Years ago, after getting laid off, I was meeting anyone who would talk to me.

I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and hoping someone, anyone, would open a door.

One day, a former colleague stopped me mid-conversation and said:

“Stop giving people your resume. Give them direction.”

That’s when I learned about something that changed everything for me:

The Target Company List.

It’s simple:
A Target Company List is a short, clear list of companies you’d love to learn more about or possibly work for.

It’s not fancy.
It’s not laminated.
But it 𝘪𝘴 specific.

And specific is what helps people help you.

Here’s why it works:

When someone asks “How can I help?”, your resume makes their brains freeze.

They don’t know what you actually want.
They don’t know who to send it to.
So nothing happens.

But if you hand them your Target Company List and ask:
“Do you know anyone at any of these companies?”

Now the answer is easy.
Yes or no.

If it’s yes, you get a warm introduction.
If it’s no, you can ask if they know anyone at 𝘴𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘳 companies.

Either way, the conversation moves forward.

The Target Company List forces you to be clear.

Clear about how someone can help you.
Clear about where you’re aiming.
Clear about what you want.

And clarity is what turns a casual chat into real momentum.

If you’re networking right now, especially after a layoff, build your list.

Bring it to your next conversation.

You’ll be surprised how many doors open when you stop handing people your resume and start giving them a map.



I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to join the mission to change the way the world feels about networking,

Do one of these:
✅ Subscribe to my newsletter-click link on top of the post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

If starting conversations feels like the hardest part of networking, you’re not alone.

In yesterday's poll, it was the #1 networking challenge people face.

Here’s the good news:
You don’t have to start with strangers.

You can start with people who already know you.

The goal isn’t to send a perfect message.

The goal is to restart the relationship and eventually talk like real humans again.

Start simple:
“Hey, it’s been a while. How are things going?”

That’s it.

No ask.
No pitch.
No favor.
No résumé.
No “can we chat about opportunities?”

A few reminders if this still feels awkward:
• You’re not cold-messaging.
• These people already know your name.
• You don’t need a “reason.”
• A delayed reply isn’t rejection. People are busy

When they respond, try to move from online message → real conversation

Focus the conversation on them.

Be curious, not impressive.

Because networking grows most when you go from messages to conversations

If Starting Conversations is your sticking point, you’re not broken.

You’re just one message away from momentum.

Try it this week:

Pick one person from your past and send that simple line.

Then let me know how it goes.


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

If you want to join the mission to change the way the world feels about networking,

Do one of these:
✅ Subscribe to my newsletter-click link on top of the post
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Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

There are 3 types of people you need in your network:
+, -, and =

"+" People who are ahead of you. They have knowledge and experience you can tap into.

"-"  People who are behind you. They can benefit from your knowledge and experience.

"=" People who are even with you. They share the same challenges and successes.


It's easy to focus on the people ahead of you in your networking efforts.

Don't forget to connect with people who are even with or behind you.

Everyone can be a networking connection, if you're having great networking conversations.

And, you never know who you might help,

Or who might help you.

P.S. - If you are looking for help having great networking conversations, this week's newsletter issue is for you: https://lnkd.in/evrUMZxZ



I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to become a more confident networker,

Do one of these:
✅ Hit "View my newsletter" at the top of this post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

Open article: Why Starting Networking Conversations Feels Hard (and How to Fix It) by open.substack.com

Why Starting Networking Conversations Feels Hard (and How to Fix It)

There are 5 types of networkers,
And you’ll probably be all of them.

The type of networker you are today won’t always be who you are tomorrow.

When you start your career, networking might mean finding mentors or your first big opportunity.

Later, it might mean becoming more visible inside your company.

And eventually, it becomes about building trust, helping others, or creating a more connected culture.

Your approach has to evolve with your career.

I’ve learned there are five main 𝘵𝘺𝘱𝘦𝘴 of networkers, and most of us move through several of them over the course of our careers:

1. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 – getting back on your feet after a layoff or career change.
   
2. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 – doing great work, but not enough people know it.
   
3. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿-𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 – focused on helping your team or organization build trust.
   
4. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 – highly skilled, but missing true peer connection.
   
5. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 – just getting started and figuring out where to begin.

You’ll recognize yourself in one of these right now, but that’s only your 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘵.

No matter which one you are today or tomorrow,

You need an approach to networking that will support each stage of your career.

That's why I teach The Connection Loop to everyone no matter where they are in life.

Last week I taught it to a group of business owners to help them drive referrals.

Today, I'm teaching it to a group of job seekers looking for that next role.

It works for any type of networker.

Want to learn it?

I talk about it every week in my newsletter.

Not a subscriber, join for FREE today:
https://lnkd.in/ece-r3kB


I'm Greg, The Introverted Networker!

I talk a lot about networking. 
And building better workplaces.

If you want to join the mission to change the way the world feels about networking,

Do one of these:
✅ Subscribe to my newsletter-click link on top of the post
✅ Leave a comment: it tells the algo you want more
✅ Share this post with your LinkedIn network

Doing these guarantees I'll be in your feed.

Open article: The Introverted Networker | Greg-The Introverted Networker | Substack by theintrovertednetworker.substack.com

The Introverted Networker | Greg-The Introverted Networker | Substack

Think the holidays are a bad time to network?
Watch this classic holiday movie.

If you’ve ever watched “It’s a Wonderful Life,” you already know why this time of year is actually the 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 time to reconnect with people.
 
George Bailey isn’t a great networker because he’s charismatic.

He’s a great networker because he gives.
 
He shows up when others need him.
He helps the people around him.
He supports his community.
 
And when his life falls apart, those same people flood into his home to give back to him.
 
That’s how networking works.
 
You don’t need to chase strangers or make perfect small talk.

You start with the people already in your world.
You give something small and meaningful.
You make their lives a little easier.
 
Advice. Introductions. Recommendations.

Or, more simply: Encouragement.
 
When you give without expecting anything in return, people want to reciprocate.

Not instantly.
Not perfectly.
But eventually.

Often when it matters most.
 
This is why the holidays are an ideal time to reconnect.
 
People feel grateful.
They’re more reflective.
They’re more generous.
 
Reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while.
Tell them they came to mind.
Ask how their year has been.
 
You’re not “networking.”
You’re doing what George Bailey did.
You’re investing in the people around you.
 
If you give consistently, your community becomes your safety net.

And, this time of the year, is the best time to do it.

 
P.S. I'm writing about how to network during the holidays in this week's newsletter.

Not a subscriber? 

Sign up for FREE when you hit the link under my headline at the top of the post ☝️

Most people don’t hate networking.
They hate how they 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 it will feel.

They struggle because starting a conversation feels awkward.
 
Here’s a mindset shift that makes it much easier:
 
Put yourself in the other person's shoes.
 
If a former coworker messaged you today and said,

“Hey, it’s been a while. How have you been?”

You wouldn’t roll your eyes.
You’d probably feel good that they thought of you.
 
If someone at work said,
“How’s your week going?

You wouldn’t panic.
You’d answer the question.
 
And if someone asked for a small, specific favor,
You’d try to help if you could.
 
When you look at it from the other perspective,
The fear starts to fade.

You stop worrying about being judged.
You realize you’re not bothering anyone.
You’re doing something thoughtful.
 
A few simple ways to start the conversation:
 
• Online: “You came to mind this week and I wanted to see how you’re doing.”
  
• In person: “What are you looking forward to this month?”
  
• Follow-up: “I'd love to learn more about that. Want to jump on a quick call sometime next week?”
 
You don’t need perfect lines.
You just need to see the interaction through their eyes.
 
This week, try one small thing:

Message one person you haven’t talked to in a while.
Start one short conversation with someone at work.
 
If the roles were reversed, you’d appreciate it.
 
That’s why it works.

This weeks' newsletter gives you more scripts for having networking conversations. It drops tomorrow morning for my subscribers: https://lnkd.in/ece-r3kB

If networking feels awkward or exhausting, this might be why…

Have you ever felt like you should be better at networking by now?

You’re not alone, and you’re not broken.

Networking isn’t about being outgoing, confident, or perfectly polished.

It’s built on five small habits, and most of us are only doing one or two consistently.

Here's the list of the five habits:

1. Identify Who You Know: knowing which people you want to connect with
   
2. Start Conversations: reaching out in a friendly, low-pressure way
   
3. Provide Value: offering something thoughtful or helpful
   
4. Be Easy To Help: clearly sharing what you’re exploring or who you want to meet
   
5. Make It A Habit: doing it consistently, not just when you need something

This week in my newsletter, I'm sharing a 5-question self-assessment to help you see where your networking habit breaks down, and what to do about it. 

Not a subscriber? You can join here for FREE: https://lnkd.in/ece-r3kB

Now I’m curious…which stage is hardest for you right now? Tell me in the poll.

P.S. - If your answer would have been “𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗜𝘁 𝗔 𝗛𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁,” comment below and just type 𝗛𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁, and I'll count it in the results.

Which networking habit is hardest for you right now?

The author can see how you vote. Learn more

Shelley Piedmont, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Career GPS, LLC

Are you stuck in your career, unhappy about what you are doing, and can't see yourself continuing on the same path until you decide to retire?

Are you unhappy at work, but you can't put your finger on the exact problem? Should you change your career or change your employer? You don't know the right answer and need some insight to make the best decision.

You have been on auto-pilot and have done well in your career, but you need to figure out how to best articulate your value.

If any of these scenarios speak to you, then YouMap® may be for you.

As a certified YouMap® coach, we will deep dive into your strengths, values, skills, and personality-based interests to help you understand what work and what environments are best for you. This will help you better understand what types of roles, managers, and organizations better align with what you need for career success.

Reach out to me at spiedmont@mycareergps.com for more information.

Career Coach

Have you been in a job search for a few months and have yet to see any results?

Are you about to start a job search and what to get the best results in the fastest amount of time?

I can help you develop a job search strategy for your situation that fits best with what you do best. I can't promise that your job search will be fun, but I can make it more organized and efficient. I will provide tools and tips to help you reach your goal and ongoing support.

Feel free to contact me at spiedmont@mycareergps.com to talk about how we can work together.

Job Search Strategy Coach

I have conducted thousands of interviews. I have seen people ace an interview; I have also seen people do horribly. Do you know what the difference often was between the two? Practice. 

Work with me on your interviewing skills. I will help you craft compelling answers to common interview questions and any that may cause you concern. I will provide feedback that you will rarely get when you interview. 

Contact me at spiedmont@mycareergps.com to discuss how I might be able to help you.

Interview Expert

Not having a LinkedIn profile that is optimized for being found could be costing you opportunities. 

For many Recruiters, LinkedIn is the first place they look for candidates for their job openings. Wouldn't you like to be one of the people that are contacted? Wouldn't you like to meet interesting and influential people in your field? Of course! 

One of the best ways is to make sure you have an interesting and engaging LinkedIn profile. I can help you do this and devise an outreach strategy that will help you build your network.  

Contact me at spiedmont@mycareergps.com to discuss how I can help you.

LinkedIn Profile Optimizer

Do you want feedback on how to write a strong resume?  I believe it is much better to learn how to write a great resume (which most of us were never taught) because you then have knowledge that will serve you well throughout your career. 

This is my teaching how to fish service. 

We will get on a recorded Zoom call, and I will review your resume for content and formatting. We will guide you on how to improve your story to catch the hiring team's eye. 

We can also help you ensure you are not making mistakes that could prove problematic for Applicant Tracking Systems. Once you update your resume with our suggestions, we will review your writing and provide written feedback.

Contact me at spiedmont@mycareergps.com to discuss how I can help you with your resume.

Resume Strategist

Avendra LLC

I aligned business objectives with employees and management at Avendra as well as the other Aramark owned Group Purchase Organizations (GPOs), two in the US, one in Canada and two in Europe (500+ employees). The position served as a consultant to management on human resource-related issues and acted as an employee champion and change agent.

Key Results:
-2016 and 2017 winner of the Washington Post Top Workplace award and a Glassdoor rating of 4.4.
-Time-to-fill and cost-per-hire decreased when the recruitment process was streamlined by changing the application process, development of new candidate sources, the addition of better performing vendors, and implementation of a new Applicant Tracking System (ATS).  
-Developed curricula for new hires and supervisors. Added new training vendors. Led a project to redesign the user interface of the Learning Management System (LMS) for ease of use.
-Project leader that moved the company from a manual to an electronic performance management system.  Redesigned job competencies. Quarterly performance feedback introduced.
-Exceptional Contribution Award winner for my leadership in successfully implementing new recruitment and performance software.

HR Director, Avendra Group

I oversaw HR strategy for all aspects of employee development programs and systems, performance management, retention, training, employee relations, onboarding processes and recruiting/selection processes and systems. Avendra has 300 employees located between our Maryland HQ and California office as well as home-based employees across the country and in Canada.

Director of Talent

WTS International

I was in charge of corporate HR strategy, workforce planning, training and organizational development, employee relations, and compensation and benefits for over 1,500 employees located in 80 locations throughout the United States. 

Key Results:
-First HR Director and built the HR department.
-Implemented new HR software systems (ADP timekeeping and iCIMS ATS).
-Developed HR-specific and management soft skill training for managers that was delivered on-site and via webinar.
-Implemented a new performance management system.
-Decreased employee turnover year after year.

Director of Human Resources

Bell Nursery

I was hired to develop the Human Resources Department. I was a one person HR department for 300 full time and 1,000 seasonal employees that worked in the Garden Centers of Home Depot stores in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Key Results:
-Planned and developed the specifications for a new HRIS system, timekeeping, applicant tracking, payroll and expense tracking system. Chose vendor. Project manager for implementation. Developed and provided training.
-Integrated two acquisition companies to ensure consistent policies and procedures, benefits, and compensation.
-Developed a recruitment plan that led to the hiring of 800 seasonal employees (truck drivers, laborers, agricultural workers, and retail employees).
-Organizational restructuring of the retail supervisory positions to include new job descriptions and compensation plans.

Human Resources Manager

Century Pool Managemen

Managed the Domestic Recruitment, Human Resources and Payroll Departments. The organization had 50 full time and 600+ seasonal employees. Managed a staff of four Recruiters, an HR Assistant and a Payroll Manager.

Key Results:
-Conducted HR audit which resulted in the overhaul of the recruitment process to ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws.
-Led HR to become the top department in the area of client responsiveness in the company.
-Developed new metrics reports for the HR area which resulted in greater efficiency of recruitment efforts and a shorter time-to-fill.

Arbitron (Purchased by Nielson)

Staffing Specialist (part-time) for the call center located in Columbia, MD. Headed a three person team responsible for staffing a 100-seat outbound call center.

Key Results:
-Reached all staffing goals on time and on budget. Increased center performance and eliminated all overtime expenses.
-Hired 300+ Research Associates per year.
-Hired 30+ bilingual Research Associates. Attained the highest-ever staffing level for bilingual RAs.

Staffing Specialist

ARAMARK

Human Resources Manager for the Private Education and Employer Child Care Divisions. I was in charge of all HR duties, to include recruiting, compensation, employee relations, training and benefits administration. I was promoted to this position from the Recruitment Manager position with Children's World Learning Centers. 

Key Results:
-Increased racial and gender diversity of staff.
-Achieved an optimal staffing level that was cited for the improved performance of the division.
-Made changes to compensation to align corporate business practices with industry norms.
-Integrated the two lines of business into the corporate culture while still maintaining their distinct business identities.

The TJX Companies, Inc.

Provided recruiting services for management and staff in a 10 state region.

Key Results:
-Three times named National Recruiter of the Quarter.
-During tenure I decreased average cost-per-hire each year by using creative recruiting techniques.

Regional Recruitment Manager

Do you want a more fulfilling career but feel unsure where to start? 
Perhaps your current job search isn't yielding results, and you are frustrated and lost.

I'm Shelley Piedmont, a Career Coach who specializes in empowering individuals to break free from their career ruts, master the modern job market, and get hired faster. 

With over 20 years of recruiting experience and 6 years as a Job Search Coach, I've read thousands of resumes, reviewed countless LinkedIn profiles, and interviewed candidates at all levels, from entry-level positions to senior leadership. You can trust that I've seen it all, and I'm here to guide you through it.

I want to help you craft a fulfilling career and navigate the complexities of a job search. Through personalized coaching and proven strategies, I help my clients overcome these common challenges:

•  Is your current career lacking fulfillment? Do you go through the motions but yearn for a more meaningful career that allows you to thrive? – I help you identify a career path that aligns with your strengths, values, motivating skills, and personality-based interests. 

•  Feeling lost in your job search - Together, we'll develop a customized strategy that maximizes your visibility and lands you the job you deserve.

•  Is your resume falling into a black hole? - Having screened countless resumes, I know what grabs the attention of hiring managers. I'll teach you how to craft a compelling document that showcases your unique skills and experience in a way that will interest recruiters and hiring managers. 

•  Unsure how to leverage LinkedIn? Based on my insider knowledge of LinkedIn and what recruiters seek, I can teach you strategies to build a powerful online presence that attracts the right opportunities. 

•  Are interviews leaving you confused with no feedback? – I'll identify areas for improvement and help you stand out from the competition. We'll master interview techniques, build confidence, and prepare you to ace your next interview. 

•  Do you want to be paid your worth? – We'll develop a targeted salary negotiation strategy to help you get what is important to YOU and ask confidently. 

Check out my recommendations section to see how I have helped many job seekers meet their goals.

Are you feeling stuck? I can help you find a job where you can thrive. 

Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your career goals and learn how I can help you achieve them! 

www.mycareer.gps.com/appointments

Interview the Right Way Coach

Shelley Piedmont

A post this week claimed job seekers shouldn't be nervous in interviews. It got 279 comments, and many people pushed back hard.


What was the disconnect? The poster didn't account for what people are actually living through right now.

This was the reality from the comments:
—Single parents with rent due and Christmas approaching
—Professionals unemployed for 6+ months and behind on their mortgage
—Experienced workers over 50 constantly battling ageism 
—Talented people building portfolios at night, researching companies thoroughly, doing everything "right," but still getting ghosted

These people do not lack preparation or confidence. It's about a market that's crushing people, good people.

I'll be honest: I still get nervous in interviews.

My last interview was for an internal promotion. People who already knew my capabilities. Panel format, probing questions about my thinking and past decisions. I could feel my heart beating faster.

I acknowledged it. Did deep breathing and pushed through. I got the job. 

But those nerves were real, and I make no apology for them.

Here's what I've learned: Acknowledging nerves and pushing through is completely different from pretending they shouldn't exist in the first place.
Nerves don't mean you're unqualified. Often, they mean you care deeply about the opportunity and understand what's at stake.

The problem, as I see it, isn't nervous candidates: 

It's interview processes designed to intimidate rather than get to know you. It's interviewers who can't see talent past a few moments of anxiety. 
It's a market that treats people like cogs in a machine.

For hiring managers: You've felt nerves in the past (don't lie). Why are you creating a process so intimidating, then?

For job seekers: What's one thing that's helped you show up fully despite the nerves?

This market is testing everyone. Let's be real about it.

-----
I'm Shelley. I used to hire for companies, but now I advocate for YOU. My goal? Helping you find work that energizes instead of exhausts you.
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Shelley Piedmont🧭

Clarity↣Strategy↣Hired For Managers to VPs • Job Search Strategist & Interview Coach • Career Coach, Job Change Advisor & Resume + LinkedIn Advisor

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