Every job seeker and business professional should be dedicating time every month to attend networking events. Networking is a critical activity that will help build a great career as well as a successful business. While what you know is crucial, who you know is even more important and can open many doors to future opportunities.
To help make networking easier and more effective, here are some networking tips that rock!
Have a goal
Many people feel overwhelmed at the thought of networking and get intimated when attending events where they don’t know anyone. One way to overcome networking jitters is to set some pre-determined goals before attending an event. Perhaps your goal is to meet 5 people at the event, collect business leads or connect with a specific business owner. Whatever it may be, you are far more likely to succeed if you set some clear outcomes for each networking events you attend.
Think of networking as giving and not receiving
One of the common mistakes people make at networking events is trying to sell themselves to others before they even have a real conversation. While it is true that you should always have goals when networking (i.e. to get a job, a contact or a piece of advice), a better way to build connections is to focus on helping other people. By helping people, you will create a positive first impression and position yourself to receive their assistance in the future.
Practice your elevator speech
Networking events don’t last all day, so you need to make the most of the time you have. An excellent way to do that is to practice your elevator speech in advance so you can showcase your product, company or skills to investors/clients in 60-seconds or less. If you’re a job seeker, your elevator pitch should describe what you have done in your career and what you hope to do next.
Smile
It’s a simple – but often overlooked – rule of engagement. Not only does smiling make it easier for people to connect with you because you come across as warm and inviting, it can also help put your nervous self at ease. Remember to smile before you enter the room or before you approach someone. This will go a long way towards creating a positive first impression.
Get to know the host
Many people seldom consider meeting the host when attending a networking event. The truth is that the host is often the most valuable connection you can make. Greeting the host or the person who invited you can open up many doors as they likely know a lot of other guests and can always introduce you to someone of interest.
Follow up
Follow up is part of the networking process but many professionals tend to forget this task. If you made a great connection with someone, send a LinkedIn connection request and include a personal message asking to stay in touch. Keep it short and to the point. Be sure to reach out regularly to comment on their posts or to share valuable career information. You can also wish them a happy birthday or inform them about opportunities they may be interested in.
Wrap-up
Networking events can be intimidating, awkward and loaded with pressure. You can use the tips above to get into the spirit of the event and make some amazing new connections that will;help enhance your visibility in the community and expand your career options.
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