Abundant Practice Podcast
Episode #621: Is Networking Stressful
Release Date: February 15, 2025

Host: Allison Puryear
Description: Discover how to overcome the common challenges therapists face in networking to build a thriving private practice. In this episode, Allison provides actionable strategies to transform your approach to networking, making it a positive and effective tool for growing your practice.

Introduction to Networking Concerns

In Episode #621 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, host Allison Puryear addresses a common concern among therapists: the stress and anxiety associated with networking events. A listener posed the question, “I have a networking event coming up and I am absolutely dreading it. I feel so out of my element. But I know that networking is an important part of building my practice. Do you have any advice for how to make a networking event something to look forward to?”

Embracing Authenticity Over Perfection

Allison emphasizes that networking does not require you to be perfect. She reassures listeners that the key to effective networking is simply to "show up as you" (02:15). The pressure to impress others with credentials or charm can be overwhelming, but authenticity is far more valuable.

Personal Anecdote: The Lesson of Imperfection

To illustrate her point, Allison shares a personal story from a networking event hosted by an eating disorder treatment center. She recounts sitting next to a therapist who was dismissive and critical, making the environment uncomfortable. This experience underscored for Allison that striving for perfection can sometimes lead to negative outcomes. She advises listeners to avoid being that person who detracts from the networking experience, stressing that being genuine is far more effective in building lasting relationships.

Three Essential Networking Strategies

Allison outlines three fundamental strategies to make networking more enjoyable and productive:

1. Be Curious (03:10)

   • Focus on Others: Instead of centering the conversation around yourself and your practice, "ask about the other person, their life, their work" (03:12). This approach makes interactions more engaging and fosters deeper connections.
   • Ask Real Questions: Delve into aspects of their life beyond work to create a more meaningful dialogue.

2. Be Real (04:00)

   • Authenticity Over Salesmanship: Allison urges therapists to "skip that therapist voice" and avoid turning networking into a sales pitch. Instead, present yourself as a person rather than a walking advertisement.
   • Avoid Desperation: Displaying desperation for clients can be off-putting. Allison advises maintaining an abundance mindset, focusing on what’s possible rather than dwelling on scarcity.

3. Listen Actively (05:00)

   • Deep Listening: Emphasizing that listening is a core therapeutic skill, Allison highlights the importance of being a good listener during networking. She states, "Really listen. This is a big part of our job" (05:03).
   • Hold Space: How you listen and hold space speaks volumes about your capabilities as a therapist. Active listening can lead to more genuine referrals.

Overcoming Networking Anxiety

Allison acknowledges that many therapists feel anxious about appearing unlikable or shallow during networking. She provides the following advice:

• Assess Self-Perception: Ensure that concerns about being prickly aren’t merely low self-esteem issues.
• Embrace Your Authentic Self: Even if you feel a bit awkward, authenticity can attract like-minded referral sources who appreciate your true self.
• Focus on Relationship Building: Networking should prioritize building trust and relationships over immediate business gains.

Practical Tips for Successful Networking

To further assist listeners, Allison offers practical tips:

• Start Small (05:45): If nervous, begin with smaller interactions. Ask questions and listen more than you speak.
• Wait to Share: There’s no need to dominate the conversation with your practice details. Share about yourself when genuinely prompted.

Resources and Continued Support

Allison concludes the episode by directing listeners to additional resources:

• Worksheets: “You can DM me the word sheets to get this week's worksheet, how to Not Hate Networking” (05:50).
• Complete Networking Course: Available through the Abundance Party membership program, accessible by sending a DM with the word “party” for a link.
• Encouragement: “You’ve got this with networking. It is not as bad or scary or skeezy as you were imagining it to be. It is literally just you connecting with somebody who may be a new friend.”

Conclusion

Episode #621 provides valuable insights into making networking a less intimidating and more rewarding experience for therapists. By focusing on authenticity, curiosity, and active listening, therapists can build meaningful relationships that foster both personal and professional growth. Allison’s compassionate and practical advice demystifies the networking process, empowering listeners to approach events with confidence and a positive mindset.

Resources Mentioned:

• Abundance Party Membership Program: Step-by-step guidance on building a successful private practice. www.abundanceparty.com
• Free Private Practice Checklist & Worksheets: www.abundancepracticebuilding.com
• Support Email: help@abundancepracticebuilding.com

Connect with Allison:

• YouTube Channel: Access the entire Ask Allison library for more tips and strategies.
• Follow and Review: Share the episode with therapist friends to help colleagues build their desired practices.

Notable Quotes:

• “Networking is not about perfection. It's not about dazzling somebody with your credentials or being the most charming person in the room. You just need to show up as you.” — Allison Puryear [02:15]
• “Really listen. This is a big part of our job. And if you are a poor listener, when you are talking to somebody and you're networking, they're going to think you're going to be a poor listener as a therapist as well.” — Allison Puryear [05:03]
• “You’ve got this with networking. It is not as bad or scary or skeezy as you were imagining it to be. It is literally just you connecting with somebody who may be a new friend.” — Allison Puryear [06:00]

By embracing these strategies, therapists can transform their networking experiences from stressful obligations into opportunities for genuine connection and practice growth.