Networking can be a daunting task – it requires you to put yourself out there and speak with strangers. While it may seem intimidating, networking can also help you improve upon your business by forming relationships and meeting strategic contacts. Read below to find helpful tips that will have you leave a networking event feeling successful and accomplished.
1. Come prepared
Having a few talking points in the back of your mind will help spark conversations and also ease the nerves when approaching new people. It is even better if you have conducted research prior to the event on some key influencers who will be attending. This way, you can start a conversation on something you share in common and allow the conversation to flow more naturally. When you develop a conversation that is of interest to both you and the person you are speaking with, that person is more likely to remember you. Later on, that person will recall the conversation you had about traveling to Thailand or attending Florida State University and will be more open to establishing a long-term relationship.
2. Be yourself
The whole point of networking events is to be able to introduce yourself to the people in the room. If you feel like you have to speak about certain points or act a certain way, you are wrong. The best thing you can do at a networking event is to just be yourself! Share personal stories so those in the room can get to know you better. Establishing a conversation that is open to topics beyond the initial purpose of the event will prove to be beneficial for you afterwards when maintaining contact with the people you met.
3. Send follow-ups
At networking events, people often speak of meeting up for coffee to discuss a strategy or referring a friend for business help. If this happens to you, follow up on it! This is a great opportunity to form long-lasting relationships and expand your network. After speaking with people, jot down their name and an interesting point you discussed on a piece of paper or even in your phone. Do not make it obvious but do not wait until last minute either because you may forget. When you follow-up with this person, mention the point that you wrote about before so they have a better chance of remembering you and why you are contacting them.
4. Practice often
One networking event is not enough to grow your network and build contacts. In order to get more comfortable with networking and become great at it, you must practice often. Sign yourself up for as many networking events as possible and try to vary their scope so you don’t run into the same people. You can even practice small talk with coworkers in your office to enhance your networking skills.
Networking, while intimidating for some people, can also be a lot of fun! You get the opportunity to interact with people who are in a similar situation as you and hear their stories. You will be amazed at what people have accomplished and how much you can learn from just a quick conversation.