“Your functional skills are important, but they won't create career growth. Career growth is created via your network. The more time you spend networking, the more your career will grow.” Nicole Trick Steinbach Human connection, also called networking, is the most important strategic approach to career growth, so this episode covers the foundations for networking: mindset, approach, and implementation details.  Most importantly, if you feel scammy while networking, you are doing it wrong. Instead, connect with curiosity and interest as a human, to another human. In short: stop being weird and start being connected.  I share some common misconceptions and challenges I hear frequently about networking and how to resolve each of them. Then I offer a step-by-step process to empower you to navigate networking for career growth with authenticity and genuine curiosity, paving the way for sustained career growth. Networking, done right, will cultivate a robust and authentic network, underscoring the transformative impact of human-to-human connections in shaping successful and fulfilling career paths. And that is brave.  Hot topics from this episode: Importance of Networking for Career GrowthStatistics on job offers starting with personal connectionsBalancing functional skills and networkingHow to Approach Networking: mindset, obstacles, and long-term thinkingThe interest interview: the mechanics of networkingNurturing professional relationshipsResources: E72: Momentum - Interest Interviews  Career Tip for Women in Tech: Interest Interviews for Career Growth - E37  The Power of the Interest Interview for Career Growth into Tech with Jess Tillis  Network to Find Truth, Joy and Purpose in Your Life to Grow Your Career from Education into Tech with Ashley Willumitis E61  Realizing Your Deep Inalienable Worth to Grow Your Career with Ashley Willumitis (Client) - E120  For more information on how you can build your brave:Check out my websiteJoin my mailing list for more insights, opportunities, and inspirationConnection with me on LinkedIn If you are an established woman in tech who is creating results and making an impact at work so your workload and stress just keep growing but promotions and salary bumps remain a distant dream, it is time for change.  Listen, we all know the tech industry has dramatically changed. It's time your career approach did too.  You don't need cookie-cutter programs or dusty advice from outdated playbooks, because what works for tech bros, won't work for you. You need individualized, bespoke support to build your brave career. One that reflects who you are as a woman in tech.  I invite you to explore career coaching with me. Get all the details, including prices and client results, at TrickSteinbach.com. You can stress less, work less, and earn more. You've already earned it. Let's make it happen.