From an early age, we are taught about the importance of networking. What if you have never networked before? Where can you get started? According to YouTern.com, here are a few tips for starting your networking journey.
- Networking is More About Giving Than Taking
Remember, relationships are mutual, and networking is no exception. Do not attend networking events expecting others to help you out—make sure individuals you interact with understand how you could also help them out in the future.
- Don’t Be Quick to Whip Out the Business Cards
It is always a good practice to have business cards on you. If you hit it off with someone at a networking event, or someone offers you a business card, feel free to hand out one of yours as well. However, don’t “make it rain” business cards—others will quickly become annoyed by this behavior, which can be perceived as pushy and even arrogant.
- Don’t Spend the Whole Time at the Food Table
Many networking events offer nice meals—some offer lobster, champagne, and decadent desserts. However, no matter how much of a foodie you are, or how intense your sweet tooth may be, don’t let the food distract you. For one, networking is not going to be successful if you have food on your breath or in your teeth. Chewing is also unattractive during a conversation. Instead, grab a bite before you hit the event and stick to nonalcoholic beverages as you mingle with others. You definitely don’t want to be remembered as the person who had one too many margaritas at the last networking event.
- Follow Up With Those You Meet
Networking is not a one-time event. Rather, it is about the relationships you foster with regular contact. Email those you have met after the networking event, add them on LinkedIn, and maybe even suggest meeting up for coffee or lunch one day. Staying in touch is key to successful networking. Of course, don’t hound the person to death, but make sure you check in once in a while to maintain the relationship.
- Keep Networking
Networking is a skill that must be learned. Therefore, it may take a few networking events before you finally feel comfortable meeting strangers and exchanging information. The more events you attend, the more your skills will be strengthened—and the more your career will benefit.
See the following articles for more information about networking:
- Tips on Networking and Entering the Hidden Job Market
- How to Excel in Networking When Hunting for a Job
Inc.com also offers some pointers for introverts, extroverts, and the socially awkward.
First, don’t give yourself unreasonable demands. It is perfectly fine to attend a networking event and just talk to one or two people. Often, making just a couple of contacts is better than having meaningless conversations with fifteen people.
It is also a good idea to think of some icebreakers to get conversations going. You could check out the backgrounds of those you know will be attending, or, as the article suggests, you could bring up food and travel, two things that most people enjoy.
It is wise to set a time limit as well. For example, maybe you will stay at an event for just an hour. This will relieve some of the pressure you may be feeling, as all you have to do is show up and hang out.
If you see that someone seems to know everyone in the room, ask that person to introduce you to other individuals at the event. This will help you meet people, and will give your introductions more weight since someone of authority or importance is introducing you.
Make sure to practice active listening. People will remember you if you make a connection with them, so listen to people’s responses with the intent to understand them and your connections will be fruitful.
Also, share personal stories to make yourself stand out. If someone compliments your watch, for example, do not stop at “Thanks.” You could say, “Thanks, it was my grandfather’s, and he was actually a judge in a different state.” You never know who may have heard of your grandfather, or, perhaps the person will say, “Oh, my father is a judge here in town!” It pays to say more!
- See Skip Haley's Networking Tips for Introverts for more information.
Source: YouTern.com
Photo credit: hercampus.com
