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Say the word ‘networking,’ and some people immediately experience a case of the heebie-jeebies. The idea of getting out there and making conversation with others doesn’t have to be a cringe-worthy event. After all, as a marketing consultant (and a writer for Hcareers), Debra Jason explains, “Life is about building and nurturing relationships. No one succeeds in a vacuum. We need each other in some shape or form – be it to inspire, uplift, respect and/or mentor one another.”
Whether you’re in a job you love or seeking a new one, connecting with others is a vital key to your success. If you’re job-hunting, oftentimes it’s the people you meet along the way who can refer you to open positions they hear about within their network. If you’re currently working, and want to move up the career ladder, there is value in the relationships you create along the way.
Even if you’re comfortable stepping into a room of people, be it at a hospitality conference, a Chamber of Commerce meeting, or a cocktail party, there are dos you should keep in mind to make your networking experience a meaningful one.
Five Networking Dos
1. Be interested in others
In her book Millionaire Marketing on a Shoestring Budget™, Ms. Jason wrote, “When you show a genuine interest in others, they’ll find you interesting.” Your first question should not be “May I have your business card?” When you are at a networking event and take the time to get to know someone, the moment may naturally come when you exchange business cards.
2. Be a good listener
Ask thought-provoking questions and listen closely to the answers. Rather than “what do you do?”, breaking the ice with a question about what someone did over the weekend or a passion they have outside of work can set you apart from others.
If you’re at a loss for other questions to ask, we’ve created a list to help you get started here!
3. Be true to yourself
Relax and let your authentic self shine bright. Who you are in that room should be the same person you are outside of the room. The same goes with your online persona. Should someone meet you at an event and then check out your website (or social media presence), who they met at the event should be in alignment with the information they read about you online. There’s no need to be someone other than yourself.
4. Be patient
You won’t click with everyone. If you’re in a conversation and feel like you’re not syncing with that person, don’t be afraid to kindly excuse yourself and move onto someone else. And, when you have connected with someone, keep in mind that relationships take time to develop. That’s where point #5 comes into play.
5. Follow up
This is worth repeating. After all, you took the time to attend a networking event, so take the time to reach out and follow up.
Building and nurturing relationships is what leads to lasting success down the road. So whatever your goal – be it to find a job or to make a sale – keep these dos and don’ts in mind next time you walk into a networking event.