E27: Networking Strategies with Michelle Schafer.

Why Listen: Learn actionable tips to make networking less daunting and more impactful for career growth.

Michelle Schafer, an award winning career coach specializing in career transitions, shares her insights on how generalists can advance their careers through effective networking. She shares the importance of being intentional, preparing a networking plan, and leveraging curiosity to build meaningful connections.

Key Highlights: 

Networking Strategies: Michelle and Julie discussed the importance of networking for career advancement. Michelle emphasized that networking is about having conversations and building relationships, not just about selling oneself. She shared strategies for effective networking, including being curious and providing value to others.

Internal Networking: Michelle and Julie talked about the importance of internal networking within an organization. They encouraged reaching out to colleagues in different departments to learn about their work and explore potential collaborations. Michelle highlighted the need for intentionality and curiosity in these conversations.

Answering “What Do You Do?”: Michelle provided tips on how generalists can answer the common networking question “What do you do?” She suggested focusing on the kind of work that energizes them, the problems they solve, and the results they achieve, rather than just sharing a job title.

Networking Plan: Michelle outlined the steps for creating a networking plan, including brainstorming helpful contacts, prioritizing the list, crafting thoughtful reach-outs, preparing questions, and following up. She emphasized the importance of being organized and intentional in networking efforts.

Book Promotion: Michelle mentioned her upcoming book “Cultivating Career Growth” and shared that it includes strategies for career transitions, networking, and articulating value. She provided information on how to order the book and offered a free chapter preview on her website.

About Michelle Schafer

Michelle is an ICF-certified coach, author and facilitator, specializing in career transition and leadership. She is the owner and founder of Michelle Schafer Coaching, empowering people to navigate career transitions with confidence. Michelle is passionate about people and inspired by their progress, working with clients at all levels of an organization and across sectors including federal and municipal government, high tech, not-for-profit and financial services. Michelle offers coaching 1:1 and in groups, is the proud author of the #1 best selling book “Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transitions with Purpose” and most recently was recognized as one of Ottawa’s Top Coaches in 2024.

Find Michelle Here