The Connect and Bloom Podcast with Despina Zanganas

The final episode of the three-part series on how to get back to in-person networking after Covid is about what to do after the event to stay top of mind with your connections. Once the event is over and you’ve accomplished your networking goals, you may think all the work is done, but it’s really just started. In this episode, I talk about:

• how to follow up after a networking event
• how to stay top of mind with your network
• and why not every connection is meant to work out

I also cover the one key part about networking: that it’s about building relationships over time. You won’t want to miss this episode! (Check out my list of upcoming events in Toronto in the show notes below.) 

Part two of the three-part series on getting back to in-person networking after Covid is all about how to show up as your best self at the event. In this episode, I cover everything from: 

• how to dress for the event
• where to stand
• how to approach someone
• to how to leave the event

I’m going to share practical tips such as how to use power poses to get you in the right headspace. This episode is a deep dive that will leave you feeling confident and ready to make lasting connections. Tune in to learn all about this and more! 

The next three episodes of the podcast is a 3-part series on getting back to in-person networking after Covid. Whether you’re a networking newbie, or you just need to sharpen those networking skills, I’m going to share some tips to help you find events, prepare for them, and what to do to follow up and make the most of your connections. Part 1 of the series is all about how to find and prepare for networking events. In this episode, I’ll cover: 

• why you need to define your networking goals
• how to find networking events in your city 
• how to background check the event
• and how to prepare for the event

Tune in to get all the tools you need to prepare for your upcoming in-person networking events and to show up as your best, most fearless self. 

This episode is all about why networking is important and why you should network. Even though I’m going to talk about why networking is important for you, networking, at its core, is about building relationships and supporting others. In this episode, I’ll share how I went from being a shy kid who lacked self-confidence to a networking expert, and how you can too. Remember: it’s not only about career growth; it’s about so much more. I’ll also talk about some of the research around the benefits of networking and some great advice from senior leader at Shopify, Christine Silva. Tune in to learn more about all this and: 

• the importance of tooting your own horn
• why networking is about nurturing relationships
• and how networking can make you happier! 

Season 3, episode 1 kicks off 2022 with a slightly new format. In this season, I’ll still be interviewing amazing women who are expert networkers, but I’ll mostly be selecting a specific topic about networking and doing a deep dive on it. This episode is all about answering the question, “What is networking?” 

I start this episode off by addressing common misconceptions about networking that people often have all wrong. I talk about what networking actually is and all the different ways you can network that aren’t as scary as going to a big event, meeting total strangers, and “working the room.” 

In this episode, I also discuss: 

• What networking really is 
• Other ways to network (like using social media or volunteering)
• The importance of relationship-building with networking 
• And so much more! 

I used to be absolutely terrified of networking. But once I realized it wasn’t at all about schmoozing, I began to love it. And you can too. Get your pen and paper ready and tune in! I’ve got a ton to share with you. 

Episode 7 is the last show of 2021. Over the past 12 months, I’ve had sixteen different guests, and each of them have had their own unique approach to networking. Some of the women I spoke to were born to network, some were terrified but overcame that fear, and some are still afraid of networking but have found ways to work around their fear…and have amassed a huge community as a result. 

There were two consistent themes with all my guests:

1. That networking isn’t about trying to close a deal or being schmoozy, it’s about building relationships. 
2. And that networking is about curiosity and being genuinely interested in the other person. This is really important.

In this episode, I share a nugget of wisdom from each guest from my first two seasons, although they all definitely had so many more! Some highlights:  

• Julie Brown talks about how your closest ties might not be the ones that are going to help you get that new business deal or promotion
• Stacey Berry on how a digital detox can lead to new networking breakthroughs
• Angela Payne talks about how to recreate that in-person networking feeling online during COVID
• Leslie Hughes’ tips on how to use LinkedIn as a networking tool (what to do and what not to do)
• And the importance of personal branding for networking with Chanele McFarlane 

Episode 6 finds me speaking with Speaker, Author, Podcast Host, Networking Coach, and Business Development Strategist: Julie Brown. Julie is one of the few guests I’ve interviewed that I had never met in person. In fact, we were never formally introduced, nor have we bumped into each other at an event. (We’re living proof that there are more ways to network than you might think!) After learning she was a fellow networking guru, I bought her book, did some research, and very soon realized I wanted to bring her on to the show. I was thrilled when she accepted my invitation. Tune in this week as we chat about: 

-why networking is no different than relationship building, and why we shouldn’t distinguish between “real” friends and other friendships (they’re all real!)
-why Julie disagrees with a well-known evolutionary psychologist’s thoughts on stable social relationships
-how to overcome your fear of networking (hint: try the “list yourself approach”)
-how women can learn from men when it comes to networking outside of their comfort zone — and asking for what they want

-why our economic background shouldn’t hold us back in the world of networking

Website: https://juliebrownbd.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-brown-b6942817

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebrown_bd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliebrownbd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIwWVdayM2mYXzR9JNLJ55Q

Listen to Julie's Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-shit-works/id1528595881

Buy Julie's Book
This Shit Works: A No-Nonsense Guide to Networking Your Way to More Friends, More Adventures, and More Success

In Episode 5, I got to interview Government Relations Consultant, Author, President & Founder of Bstellar Group Inc., Stacey Berry. Stacey and I met a few years back at a Lean In event, and as is the case with so many of my guests, the two of us share a passion for networking. Which is why I was super intrigued to learn about her year-long “digital detox.” This exercise forced her to find other ways to network and helped her discover the only and only social platform she wanted to return to after the year was up. Tune in to hear us chat about how a digital detox can lead to new networking breakthroughs, as well as topics like:

- the importance of being intentional and strategic about where you choose to network
- how networking can help you improve your public speaking skills and communication style
- why body language is more important than you think
- why you shouldn’t get hung up on titles or connecting with high-profile people
- how ‘listening to understand’ is very different from ‘listening to respond’ — and why this matters in a networking environment

Stacey's Links​​

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-ann-b-603b89215

Website: www.staceyannberry.com

Website: www.bstellargroup.com

Stacey's book
Deeper Reflections of Life: Words To Inspire The Heart and Uplift The Soul:
http://shorturl.at/wCKU0

In Episode 4, I had a great time interviewing Financial Fitness Educator, Coach, and Podcaster: Tracey Bissett. Tracey and I were first introduced by a mutual connection back in 2018. Unfortunately, life got busy and I completely dropped the ball when it came to keeping in touch — a true networking ‘no no.’ After being re-introduced quite recently, I’m so glad I can say that she’s now officially part of my network. It was awesome to get a second chance to get to know such an amazing woman... and to chat about our shared passions (networking and podcasts!). Ready to be a fly on the wall? Pour yourself a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and listen in on my latest episode to learn about:

- why networking is about giving — not getting
- the importance of nurturing your network
- why you need to “get over yourself” if you think acknowledging important occasions — yes, like birthdays — on social media is silly
- the best conversation starter out there
- why having a podcast might just be the perfect networking tool

SOCIAL LINKS

Website: www.bissettfinancialfitness.com
Podcast: ymwithtraceybissett.libsyn.com
Twitter: twitter.com/bissettfinfit 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bissettfinfit
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bissettfinfit
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/traceybissett
Linkedin Company Profile: www.linkedin.com/company/10570745/admin
Youtube www.youtube.com/c/TraceyBissettTheMoneyCoachforEntrepreneurs

Tune in to Episode 3, where I’ll be interviewing Businesswoman, Leadership Expert, Speaker, and President of Lean in Canada: Angela Payne. As Co-Founder of Lean in Canada myself, I can’t help but feel that the two of us were destined to meet — and luckily, we hit it off when we did. Now Angela is a good friend and a true asset to my network. It’s not surprising that everyone who knows her recognizes that the connections she makes are authentic and lasting. In this episode, Angela and I have a lively discussion about networking, including:

-why putting your finger on your why will help you figure out the what 
-the secret to success for anyone who “hates”
networking (hint: it involves redesigning your mental model)
-how to recreate that feeling of connectedness during virtual events
-how women network differently, plus some tips for upping our game
-a funny story about “the 6 Angelas” (you’ve got to hear it to believe it!)

Social Links

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelapayneleedhr
LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leedhr
Website: https://www.leedhr.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/angpayne

In Episode 2, you’ll find me chatting about the “heart of networking” with Executive Leadership Coach, Group Process Facilitator, Public Speaker, and Author: Marguerite Orane. Once upon a time, Marguerite and I were both what she calls “reluctant networkers” who were inspired to face our fears and get out there by the same woman (who just happens to be the first guest I ever interviewed on this podcast — check it out!). A few years ago, we were lucky to be connected by our mutual career coach, and it truly brings me joy to have such a positive person like Marguerite in my network. Tune in as we talk about our love of networking, as well as:

- why networking is about giving, not getting
- the importance of connecting authentically with people that bring you joy
- the “connector’s high” — what is it and why we might just be addicted to it
- how Jamaicans do networking differently
- why Linkedin is one of the best places to network (virtually)

Social Links

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/margueriteorane

Website:
https://margueriteorane.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/marguerite.orane

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/joyenabler

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/margueriteorane

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/MargueriteOrane

And I’m back for Season 2, chatting about the importance of networking on Linkedin with Author, Social Media Guru, and Linkedin Profile Writer: Leslie Hughes. A woman after my own heart, Leslie helps high-profile clients step outside of their comfort zone — on her favourite social platform, of course. Perhaps not surprisingly, Leslie and I first met when I was looking for someone to help me with my Linkedin profile, and I’m so glad one of my lovely Lean In Canada volunteers was kind enough to introduce us. Tune in this week as we talk All Things Linkedin. We’ll be discussing:

-why everyone must have a Linkedin profile, and where to start if you don’t
-how to use this professional platform as a networking tool
-why it’s so important to have a Linkedin network
-why having a smaller network isn’t necessarily a bad thing (hint: more personal connections)
-how to go with the flow at in-person events

Social Media Channels

Website
www.punchmedia.ca

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-hughes/

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/punchmedia/

Email
leslie@punchmedia.ca

Buy the "Create. Connect. Convert." book
https://punchmedia.ca/book

For the closing episode of Season 1, I talk about the inevitable “a-ha” moment I experienced while speaking with Every. Single. One of my guests. Sure, I may know a thing or two about networking, but there wasn’t an episode that aired where I didn’t learn at least one new thing. Considering the amazing line-up of women I interviewed, I’m not surprised. From the mentor who helped me get to where I am today, to the woman nicknamed “The Negotiator,” to Canada’s Financial Confidante, some truly phenomenal women have shared some truly insightful gems with me this past year. Tune in to hear what little “networking nuggets” are going to stay with me for seasons to come.

Episode 10 is my final interview of the season, and what an awesome note to end on! This episode finds me chatting with Manjula Selverajah — respected journalist, technology & education columnist for CBC Radio, and guest host for CBC Ontario. The two of us met pre-Covid thanks to The List, a monthly collection of networking events for women that I compile and share with the Toronto community. After I included Manjula's organization, Tamil Women Rising, she reached out and we instantly formed a great connection. Each of us admires what the other has done to empower and connect like-minded women. Tune in as we discuss why Manjula felt the need to start a networking group for Tamil women specifically, as well as:

- super simple tips to prepare for a networking event
- why you shouldn’t fear people who approach you — and how to respond when they do
- why becoming an event ‘regular’ may eventually work in your favour
- how to make events more inclusive — and why you need to!
- why gratitude and following up are both so important

Social Links

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manjula

Website: https://www.manjulaselvarajah.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/manjaselva

In Episode 9, I interview the woman behind Wengage, a technology that connects like-minded women on the lookout for good company — in real-time. An app after my own heart! Her name is Sandra Pellegrini, and the two of us met after a series of online encounters. First, we followed each other on social media. Then, I entered a contest on her company website and won. And finally, I got an invite to a party they were hosting for subscribers. (I ended up making a lot of great connections and eventually met Sandra in person). It only took us 6 months! ;) Tune in as we talk about our shared passion for making connections, including:

- why her app is an awesome networking tool for women

- why being a good listener is key to making great connections

- how networking isn’t just about furthering your career — it can be as simple as making a new friend or finding a plumber!

- the joy we share connecting the right people and watching those relationships blossom

- different ways to network during COVID

• Instagram: wengageapp
• Facebook: wengageapp
• Twitter: wengageapp
• Website: wengageapp.com
• Linkedin Group: www.linkedin.com/company/wengage.app

Episode 8 finds me chatting with the co-founder of Live Your Potential Women’s Career & Development Program. Her name is Dr. Jean Kim — and we’ve never actually met in person. (In fact, this was the first time we even saw each other on video.) In 2017, we were introduced by a mutual connection, and we’ve only ever spoken on the phone since. And yet, we are now invaluable pieces of each other’s network. We share a deep respect for one another, and have committed to (finally!) meeting in person after COVID. (And to think people assume that networking only happens at an in-person event. That's certainly not the case for me and Jean!) Tune in to today’s episode as we talk about:

• how to reframe the word “networking” so that it doesn’t scare people away 
• why social butterflies aren’t necessarily good at networking
• why introverts should bring a wing woman to an event (and other tips for non-extroverts)
• how networking can happen anywhere — even in a pre/post-natal class (yes, this happened to Jean)
• key elements of personal branding and how this relates to networking success

---------------------------------------------

• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/drjeankim
• Instagram: lypprogram
• Website: liveyourpotential.ca 
• Linkedin Group: Live Your Potential

In today’s episode, I sit down with Jackie Porter — my friend and an amazing woman whose title may as well be Queen of All Things Finance. Recognized as Canada’s Financial Confidante, Jackie wears many (financial) hats: Certified Financial Planner, Financial Advisor, Financial Speaker and Strategist. Not to mention she’s an expert networker. Whew! She was also a pre-pandemic brunch buddy of mine — we both miss our favourite spot on St. Clair terribly. Tune in to one of Connect and Bloom’s funnier episodes, and enjoy some chuckles and chit-chat about:

- why you should never network on an empty stomach

- why you need to be in the ‘right headspace’ before networking

- the importance of being authentic when attending an event

- how you can make great connections even when you think you’re not networking

- how to network naked (Jackie did it at the gym, and so can you!)

If you’d like “the Queen of All Things Finance” to teach you a thing or two about saving your hard-earned money, take advantage of a FREE 30-minute financial planning session with Jackie via this link: bit.ly/3xvFn3C. Or subscribe to her bi-weekly newsletter — full of, you guessed it, financial advice & resources — here: legal.askjackie.ca/connectandbloom

Social Links

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/askjackieporter

Website: www.Askjackie.ca​

Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/jackieportercfp

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackieportercfp

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz94hHqKXR-bGTO6rZXLudg​

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jackieportercfp

In episode 6, I interview the founder and CEO of an organization that is dedicated to getting women on boards of directors, aptly named Women Get on Board. Her name is Deborah Rosati, and I love that she helps advance gender diversity in the boardroom by connecting women with the right people and opportunities. Perhaps not surprisingly, Deborah and I met at a networking event back in 2015, and we continue to keep in touch to this day. Tune in as Deborah and I discuss all things networking, including:

• how to network when you’re “just too busy”
• tips for selecting the right networking organizations for you
• the different ways men and women network, and why we need to learn from one another
• the importance of being both authentic and generous when networking
• why networking is a mindset

Social Links

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahrosati

Website: https://deborahrosati.ca

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wgobcanada

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeborahERosati

In episode 5, I interview a friend who also happens to be a negotiation expert and author: Fotini Iconomopoulos. Before our chat, she was kind enough to give me an advance copy of her upcoming book, Say Less, Get More — and I couldn’t put it down.  Much like the invaluable workshops she offers, this book is overflowing with sage negotiation advice for women. In fact, she was nicknamed “The Negotiator” as a child — and you’ll see why in a moment. Tune in as Fotini and I talk about the little known connection between negotiation and networking, including:

• why asking questions is critical when negotiating AND networking 
• why body language and relationship-building are so important to both
• how taking a moment to pause — a must in the world of negotiations — can make you a more effective networker too
• how to prepare for what is an anxiety-provoking situation for so many of us

Social Links

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fotiniiconomopoulos

Website https://fotiniicon.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fotini.iconomopoulos

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fotiniicon

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fotiniicon

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYiIq5wiR03JNF_avv40pXw/featured

This next episode finds me connecting with a female entrepreneur committed to connecting other women to inclusive and flexible work opportunities — all the more important in today’s Brave New World. Her name is Jennifer Hargreaves, and she’s the Brave New Woman behind tellent, an organization she founded to help “bridge the talent gap in the new work economy.” As a fellow woman who’s feeling the post-pandemic pressure, I was super excited to hear her take on things like:

• how to network to find a job
• the best questions to ask when first meeting new people
• why networking ‘mishaps’ can sometimes be a good thing
• how to go with the flow — even if networking doesn’t come naturally
• networking within an intimate online community versus a larger, more impersonal event

Social Profiles

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferabarclay

Website: https://wearetellent.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearetellent

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearetellent

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wearetellent