Networking Basics

I really like networking, as a matter of fact I am a self-confessed Networking Junkie. I have learned however, not everyone enjoys it as much as I do. So if you are one of those people who would rather walk on burning coals then attend a networking event, here are a few tips to make it easier.

Come Prepared!

Bring your business cards - This is the currency of a networking event. Just as you wouldn’t go to a store without a wallet, or try to drive without your keys, don’t show up empty-handed. As an active networked, I always try to keep an ample supply in my car, briefcase, purse and pockets.

Come with a goal - Who do you want to meet? What do you want people to know about you? Take a few minutes before you walk in the door to answer those questions to yourself, so you are prepared to answer them again when someone asks.

Approach People

Everyone came to meet someone! – You came to meet people, so don’t be shy! Remember everyone in the room came to meet people – It might as well be you! When you introduce yourself, you are actually helping the other person accomplish their goal!

Listen more – Talk Less - Relax! You are not going to make a sale over rubber chicken or stale Danish. The best you can hope for is an invitation for a longer conversation. Therefore, you goal should be to meet a lot of people, find out a little bit about all of them, and then pick one or two for a longer conversation. If you do all the talking, you will never know who will be the best connections for you.

Follow Up, Follow Up, Follow Up

When you come home from the event, the real work begins, enter contacts in your electronic address book, send follow up emails, make phone calls and set up appointments, to continue the conversation.

Then schedule your next Networking adventure. You may never be a Junkie like me, but you can be a better networker with a little practice. n