Welcome to the Tuesday Toots!
When you hear the words networking, you think of the corporate office, smartly dressed professionals and some serious interaction between go getters at work.
But that’s not it. Networking is about making deep connections that can assist in opening doors in the future.
Children must be given a head start about acquiring this skill rather than waiting for them to learn it at work.
Since the skill will definitely not be taught at school, it’s essential that parents begin these lesson at home.
“Everyone you’ll ever meet knows something you don’t.” – Bill Nye
How Does It Help?
It a combination of more than one social skill which if effectively used can assist your child to learn networking.
1. Understanding Networking
Networking is about building connections, meeting people, discovering common interests and forming mutually beneficial relationships.
It can help them reach out for advice on internships, college applications, or even school projects.
2. Effective Communication Skills
Good networking starts with good communication. Help your teen:
– Polish their active listening skills.
– Learn to pause and think before responding.
– Express ideas clearly when speaking or writing.
– Use body language to appear approachable and confident.
– Master small talk—it can lead to meaningful discussions and even resolve misunderstandings.
3. Building Confidence
Shyness and social anxiety can make networking tough. Build their confidence by:
– Practicing conversation starters together.
– Helping them prepare questions before meeting new people.
– Encouraging a positive self-image—confidence is as much about how they feel as it is about how they present themselves.
4. Online Networking Etiquette
A significant portion of networking happens online. Teach your teen:
– How to craft professional yet friendly connection requests.
– Why aggressive or overly casual messages can backfire.
– The importance of maintaining eye contact and showing interest in virtual meetings.
– That their online interactions today can shape their future opportunities.
5. Creating a Personal Brand
Your teen’s online presence matters! Guide them in:
– Identifying their strengths, interests, and goals.
– Creating a professional profile with a recent photo.
– Writing a bio that highlights their aspirations.
– Building a portfolio to showcase their talents and achievements.
6. Developing Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Networking isn’t just about what they can gain—it’s about what they can give. Teach them:
– To be patient and respectful when interacting with others.
– That differing opinions should be met with empathy, not argument.
– The power of being supportive without expecting immediate returns.
7. Expanding Their Circle
Encourage your teen to:
– Attend workshops, school events, and community activities.
– Meet people from different backgrounds and interests.
– Stay in touch with existing connections—their experiences can be valuable resources.
8. Asking for Help (the Right Way)
There’s no shame in asking for help, but there’s a right way to do it:
– Teach them to make polite and specific requests instead of demanding favours.
– Remind them to show gratitude and follow up on any assistance received.
– Encourage them to check in occasionally, not just when they need something.
9. Following Up and Staying Connected
The follow-up is what turns a connection into a relationship. Teach them to:
– Check in periodically and share useful resources.
– Send updates about their progress or achievements.
– Maintain communication so connections don’t fade over time.
Final Thoughts
Academics is just as important as learning to network. . Help them practice these skills one step at a time so they don’t feel overwhelmed. With the right approach, networking becomes second nature, leading to friendships, mentorships, and opportunities that will shape their future.
Books by My Bedside
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
The Lion Women of Teheran by Marjan Kamali
And I just reading Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy Your Odds by David Goggins.
A simple guidebook to help you build your child’s social skills and get them ready for tomorrow! Buy your copy now!!
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P.S. Want more tips on building strong life skills in your child? Stay tuned for more newsletters and resources, or feel free to join the conversation with any questions!
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Take care till next time,
