Ask HN: How do I build and grow human network?
I am 29 and have little or no network at all. I know this may sound unbelievable but its true. I moved to US around 7 years back.
I have long forgotten people from school and college. Many were furious with me since I was really good in academics and maintained high ranks.
Then I joined small company where I could not make any long time friends. Only few people were known to me. But , not someone I could call for weekend fun trip. I have been staying alone in US. My first job I worked on was big team but, again not so good people ( terrible hygiene, attitude and trying to get rid of always ! ) Current job , again not someone I could call and discuss idea occurred to me.
1. I am a bit shy. It is occurring to me I really don't know how to spark conversation ?
2. I don't know if physical appearance matter? I maintain very good hygiene, dress appropriately but I'm little fat.
3. I deleted facebook because if sad feeling it was creating ( I admit it ! )
I posted this question to reddit but someone always comments on read "How to win friends and influence people". I did that but that did not help.
I usually keep to myself , stay alone but I have really experienced downside of it. I really need to know and learn human connections and my human network. It may be little late but I believe in starting at some point. I also understand that network is value proposition so I need to present something of value to have people in my network.
What are your thoughts, suggestions, books, IRL tricks, tactics to build and grow your network ?
I find many good advice on HN so any help is appreciated.
Keep rocking !