AppId is over the quota
We’ve all done it – I certainly have. Been at a business networking event, felt uncomfortable, didn’t know anyone, and plotted when and how to escape whilst in awe of everyone else who appeared to be having a great time, chatting and mingling with ease. In the back of your mind you hope you are not giving the impression of a shrinking violet or wallflower. Well the good news is that you are not alone as 90% of people are not natural networkers, so if that’s you … welcome to the club.
There is even more good news as you can ‘unlearn’ this behaviour and become a good and effective networker. Over time you will find that you even become quite natural at it and are building networks as strong as those you admired before. So how do you become the tall sunflower that stands out above the rest?
1. Create your own networking strategy
To be effective at networking you have to be authentic, willing and need a strategy. Work out what you want to achieve from this investment of your time. Think about the positive outcomes networking can bring you plus what motivates and inspires you to take action for your career and business.
2. It’s about you … AND the other person
Networking is a two-way street and is about developing and maintaining mutually valuable relationships. It is tempting to focus on ‘getting’ something from networking but we often forget to ‘give’ something as well. Rather than just talk about yourself, ask a simple question: “Can I help you with anything?” So few people ask this question and show an interest in the person they are talking to that my guess is you will likely completely stump them, but persevere and use your ears more than your mouth.
3. Don’t give up – be consistent
Effective networking is like a dripping tap. You need to be consistent and keep at it even when you do not need anything – switch to ‘receive’ rather than be on ‘transmit’. The period of time between someone being appointed to a new role or awarded a contract in relation to when that role or contract first became available can be quite long. This is the time you need your network working for you as you may not know the opportunity is there, but someone in your network might.
4. Get connected
If you have the other person’s contact details (you should ask for these when you meet someone new anyway), drop them a quick email after the meeting to say ‘Hi’ and perhaps add something about it being lovely to have met them and that you will bear in mind how you could help. Connect with them online as well, such as Twitter or LinkedIn.
5. Benefits, Benefits, Benefits
The most asked question in a networking environment must be: “What do you do?”
Your response is make or break time. Make it too long and the other person will switch off, make it too brief and they won’t get enough information. Be sure to include the benefits of what you do. Tell them who you are, what you do and how you can help them, for example: “I’m Hilary and I am an accountant who makes companies more tax efficient” rather than just “I am an accountant”. Tailor the benefit you bring to the person you are talking to.
The everywoman workbook, An introduction to building strong networks (member login required), covers a range of tips to help you become proficient at this key business skill. The workbook combines knowledge and learning with tools and exercises so you can put what the workbook teaches you into practice straightaway.
Members of the everywomanNetwork* have access to quarterly online seminars that support the key learning points in this workbook. You also have the opportunity to ask questions of the everywoman experts. If the online seminars are not at convenient times for you then you can access them later on demand from the Building Strong Networks section at www.everywoman.com/development.
If you are not a member of the everywomanNetwork* go to www.everywoman.com/join to sign up and gain instant access to the whole workbook plus a range of exclusive tools that support your personal development.
* everywomanNetwork membership gives you access to workbooks, webinars, interviews, case studies and expert advice, plus promotional opportunities for you or your business, member discounts and offers, and the ability to connect with like-minded women.
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