We’ve all heard lots of talk about networking and how important it is, especially in the business world. There are several reasons some people do not feel that networking comes naturally to them. For some people, it feels fake. Talking to people with the motivation of self advancement seems somewhat questionable, if not immoral. For some people, the idea of interacting with other people and having some sort of goal regarding the end result seems draining. If you are not naturally an extrovert, networking can seem at best tiring and at worst terrifying. Here are a few situations in which it could be beneficial, and how best to handle them.

Betsy’s Story

As a single mother, raising a son and daughter alone for the past five years, Betsy doesn’t get to spend as much time with her children as she would like. Her managerial position at a grocery store pays well, but the hours are terrible and she is at the mercy of a retail schedule. Betsy dreams of putting her love of vintage jewelry to work some day. She wants to own her own business, selling fine costume jewelry wholesale. Betsy would truly benefit from the invaluable advice of other women who have made the transition into business for themselves. Their expertise could guide Betsy as she figures out how to make this dream a reality.

Carson

At 21 years of age, Carson is graduating from college this year. His grandfather has set aside a large amount of money as a graduation gift for Carson. Carson’s family has joked that he will squander it like the Prodigal Son in the Bible story. But Carson has plans. He wants to invest the money wisely so that it will grow. However, he is wary, due to the horror stories he’s heard about bad or fraudulent investments. Carson needs more advice than the investing books he purchased from the bookstore can give him. He needs to consult with his grandfather and some of his grandfather’s investing buddies, to get some first hand tips.

The Story of Dennis

At 64 years old, Dennis is looking back with pride on the past twenty years, in which he has owned and managed his own motorcycle repair business. While he is not ready to step down yet, Dennis does have his eye on the future. He plans to retire within ten years, and wants his oldest son Trevor to take over the business. Dennis needs to develop a strategy for business succession planning. He need to speak with other family business owners who have transferred their business from one family member to another. A smooth transition will be best for Dennis, Trevor, and the repair shop.

There are countless other situations in which networking could be a huge help. If you are worried about sincerity, make sure that you are truly interested in learning other people’s stories and strategies. Learn from them while getting to know them as people.