Let’s be honest, I am not good at networking. I’m willing to guess you struggle with this too. The first thought that comes to mind when I think of networking, “begging.” I’ve always had this view that networking is really begging for someone to do you a favor, give you a job or help you in some way. Call it the secret pessimist in me, but why should they help you? What can you do for them?
I can now define networking as building connections with others to advance or further an agenda.
- Merriam-Webster: the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically- the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business
Can I tell you how to master the art of network? No. I can however, tell you that you do need to make time to network or be left out of the conversation.
Here are a few straightforward tips on networking:
- 30 second elevator pitch
- Business cards
- A smile
- Professional attire
Not in any order, but these are the essentials.
Find any event, where you know no one. Try another profession to be your icebreaker networking event. It will be a great story at the real deal. You are going to want to smile, nothing goofy or too extremely friendly. People will likely try to avoid you, discretely. You want to pull them in you, so smile.
When you have them, you want them to be curious to know more about you. This is where your 30 second elevator pitch comes in handy. You should be practicing this every chance you get (e.g. in the car, reflective surfaces, with the family pet, etc.) It will eventually start following naturally. At networking events, I have found people’s body language becomes more receptive as their interest is peaked. They will turn their body towards you showing you have their attention. Don’t keep them long; you need to keep meeting other people. Make sure you have handed them your business card. You want them to remember who you are positively, when they look at it later.
I must say that having a business card, no matter what stage you are in professionally (employed, actively looking or just networking) looks better than having nothing. It’s the follow through after the quarterback throws you a pass. Run it home with the business card.
Your attire is very important; you want to make a great impression and stand out. However, showing up in clothing that isn’t ironed or barely clean reflects lack of care. It isn’t a fashion show either, having loud or excessive clothing and jewelry is a major no. If you have to take it off in the airport at Transportation Security Administration (TSA), it is probably good idea to leave it at home.
It’s okay to not be good at networking. In all honesty, you will probably be in a room full of people that are not great at networking either. Don’t focus on those awesome networking all stars, who fit seamlessly into any conversation. They had to start somewhere too. Networking is a necessary evil in advancing your career, your business and building a great reputation.
I’m still a work in progress myself, but these are the most important tips you should know. They rest is up to you
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S-Kaè
The Crisis Buzz 