I never thought my spring break trip would include an exciting journey that started with a simple hello. What began as a casual conversation became an unforgettable boat ride and snorkeling adventure — a reminder that you never know what opportunities lie ahead until you step out of your comfort zone.
It came together on our second night in Freeport, Bahamas. Sitting outside on the patio, we saw some people unloading their gear from a boat to take it into another unit in the building where we were staying. My mom greeted them and eventually asked which unit they were staying in. We quickly learned that they were the owners of the building after they explained that they had bought the place years ago, having moved from the UK. We started talking, and my mom mentioned how we wanted to go scuba diving, snorkeling, or even just on a boat ride during our stay. Curious if they knew anyone we could ask or a place to book an excursion, they offered to take us out on their boat! We made plans to meet on the dock the next day for a snorkeling trip to Peterson Cay.
I realized during that boat ride that without our initial interaction, we would never have been granted this opportunity. Genuine curiosity and kindness can open doors that you don’t always anticipate, allowing you to make connections and friends along the way.
You never know what will happen during a simple conversation with someone. Networking can be complex for everyone, especially with little experience in such formal settings. But networking starts in your day-to-day life. Everyone you know and meet is a new connection, most of whom can open doors for you. It’s also not just about making a connection for an opportunity. You have no idea what someone else might know until you ask: your peers may know about topics that you’re seeking answers to. Asking questions, showing genuine interest, and being open to conversations in general fosters connections with others and provides valuable insights.
Networking is about making connections, and that goes both ways. Offering your help or resources and making kind introductions can strengthen connections, creating an open space for sharing resources and knowledge.
A great way to incorporate networking into your daily life is by practicing small talk. While many, including myself, aren’t big fans of it, small talk serves as a gateway to deeper conversations. Once introductions are made and a few words exchanged, transitioning to open-ended questions becomes easier, creating opportunities to learn more about the other person. Don’t be afraid to be upfront with others, especially if you find yourself making connections in a new environment. For us, this meant simply conversing on what we hoped to get out of this vacation to an unfamiliar place. You never know what people may have to offer and what you may learn from them.
Networking in the work environment and in your personal life is important to expand your horizons and grow as a person. Avoiding conversation as a way to stay in your comfort zone isolates you from not only others, but, opportunities, knowledge, and connections they may share as well. Networking today may lead to opportunities today, months, or even years down the line. You never know what you’ll learn until you ask!