No matter what your field, we can all benefit from networking. Whether you’re looking for a job, making connections that can help in your business, or just looking to find a new friend, networking with other people is a great way to grow personally and professionally.
And while it’s always important to network with people you already know, the best way to make new connections is to network with others – but not in your everyday life. Instead, try going to a local business function, such as an industry association meeting or chamber mixer. These are places where you can meet others who share similar interests or goals as you do. And by expanding your social circle in this way, you’re likely to find yourself growing as both a professional and as a person.
But before you head out on your own, here are some business networking tips to keep in mind.
It’s easy to go into any sort of networking situation feeling nervous or awkward because it’s new territory for you. But don’t let that stop you from going out and meeting new people! The more comfortable the situation is for you, the better off you’ll be. If this means dressing up to look professional and avoiding alcohol at first, then do it. You’ll create a positive environment for yourself by doing these simple things. In order to network effectively, you have to be strategic about your actions.
1. Networking Doesn’t Work If You Don’t Put In The Time
You’ve probably heard the advice: “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” While this may have some truth to it, having a large network isn’t going to help unless you take advantage of it. You need to consistently and actively build your network by expanding your circle of contacts and taking advantage of your existing connections.
2.Ask Yourself This Question Before Any Networking Event
Do my skills match the event? Take a look at the event’s description and make sure that there is a good fit between your skills and what it is asking for.
3.Be Comfortable With Your Small Talk
You are more likely to succeed in getting an introduction if you can strike up a conversation with someone beforehand. Most people will be able to tell if you are just trying to get something out of them, so be genuine in your approach and interest. People tend to prefer talking with those they can relate to and find interesting. Don’t try too hard, just relax, ask questions, and let the conversation flow naturally.
4. Surround Yourself With People You Can Learn From
Network with intention. There is no point in networking without a plan. You may think you are just going to go and see what happens but you need a goal before you walk in the door. Your goal should be to make connections with people who can help you grow your business or your career.
What’s the best way to do that? Find someone in the room who looks successful and approach them.
Don’t worry about being shy or approaching the “wrong” person. You don’t have to be a jerk about it, but when you do this, you’re telling yourself that you have something of value to offer someone else just by being in their presence. Focus on finding ways to help them before asking for anything from them. People are naturally attracted to those who see value in them, so take some time and get to know them before you ask for anything.
Don’t look down on what other people do for a living just because it’s not what you would do if you had the chance. Learn how they did what they did and what they would recommend others do in their field if they want to succeed as they did.
After that conversation, it’s OK if you don’t hang out with that person again; just move on and talk with someone else. But at least now you have another name on your networking list and another connection that might
5. Don’t Go To Networking Events Alone
If you’re new to networking, the prospect of attending an event can be daunting. What if you don’t know anyone? Or worse, what if you do? Many people who want to grow their networks resist attending networking events because they may feel uncomfortable, or they might worry that no one will talk to them. But when you attend an event with a partner, you’re less likely to be intimidated and more likely to meet people.
Key Rules To Keep In Mind When Attending A Networking Event
Be prepared. Have a plan going into the event and know exactly who you want to meet as well as how you will introduce yourself. Identify individuals who can help further your business or career goals, and devise a plan to introduce yourself and start a meaningful conversation. Having a goal when attending any business function is important, and it gives you something to focus on while at the event. This will increase your chances of making connections and conducting successful business.
Prepare your elevator speech. Your elevator speech is an introduction that’s less than 30 seconds long that tells someone what you do for a living and why they should care about it. Practice it so that it flows well and makes sense. This means keeping it simple and using keywords that resonate with your target audience.
Think about your attire—and theirs! How do you want to look? Do you have great shoes or accessories that will set you apart from everyone else in the room?
Business Networking Tips: In Conclusion
Trying to find value in attending networking or social functions can seem like a waste of time. You may never see these people again, and the value of their advice may not be clear at first. However, always have a goal when attending any business function. It may be as simple as finding one person who knows something about an aspect of the industry that interests you.
Once you have met someone face-to-face and exchanged contact information, don’t just send them an email or call them up for an impromptu chat about nothing in particular. Instead, try to set up a specific time with them to discuss various topics that may be useful to you both professionally and personally.
When it comes to networking, think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. It isn’t necessarily about getting business right away; rather it is about building relationships with people who can assist you down the road when they might not even know they are!
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