HIGH VALUE NETWORKING
WHAT IS NETWORKING?
Networking is the process of meeting people with a common profession or interest, through the exchange of information, opinions & ideas. Networking is beneficial as it allows you to develop your social circle, expand your mindset through idea exchange, boost your self-confidence & potentially expand your professional/personal opportunities.
People often avoid networking due to the pressure of the situation, however networking isn’t just something related to our careers- we are constantly networking in life, every interaction with someone new is an opportunity to hone these skills & reduce the level of anxiety associated with the activity.
We have compiled our top tips to simplify the networking process:
OUR TOP TIPS FOR NETWORKING
1. DON’T MAKE IT ABOUT CLIMBING THE LADDER
It may be very tempting to seek out the most successful people as a way to get into the company you always wanted to work for, or to advance your career, this is very short sighted & may work against you in the long run.
Be genuine: It is very easy to tell if someone is pretending to be something they are not, showing your real self, or being open with your intentions will increase the likelihood of making a true connection.
Connect with people you admire, want to learn from, or work with: If you approach networking as a foundation for learning then the possibilities are endless. Many of people love to share their experiences, so why not take the opportunity to build your skillset/knowledge!
2. THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
There are many ways to network, it does not always have to be at a specific organized event.
Use all opportunities to network: if you have anxiety at formal events, use informal settings to practice, for example at a social event.
Networking can be in person, online, email, message or a scheduled call: think about your usual communication tools.
Be open to new technologies: emerging technologies may help to connect you to new people.
3. BE PROACTIVE
People may reach out to network with you, but it is highly likely that the connections you want to make will take some work
If you are connecting in person, be present: Actively seek the person out an engage in meaningful conversation
If you are connecting digitally, make sure that you put time aside to connect: Make sure you are free of distractions (if this is not possible, just let the other person know at the beginning so that it doesn’t create any awkwardness)
Follow up after your networking sessions: send a thank you note or call & schedule follow up sessions to continue the relationship.
4. BRING SOMETHING TO THE TABLE
Networking should be reciprocal, don’t expect the other party to bring everything.
This time should be used to share ideas, values & opinions to confirm that you would like to make the connection with this individual
When engaging with the other person, make sure you are having a conversation & not interviewing them, actually engage in the conversation, be inquisitive, be open- share your point of view & opinions.
5. BE MEMORABLE
Don’t be nervous & don’t pretend to be someone else.
The reason people are interacting with you is because they want to get to know you!Be open, honest & genuine.
Do not be afraid to let your personality show, this may be what makes you stand out of the crowd!
6. QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
It can be tempting to go wild & endlessly network, but it is more effective to make genuine connections. More doesn’t necessarily mean better.
Remember that each connection will take time & effort to develop, so it makes sense to keep the number lower, so that this remains manageable.
HOW TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR NETWORKING
The best way to increase the value of your networking efforts, is foster & grow relationships.
Most networking instances will be a one off, so it is imperative to make sure you have a plan to turn these new connections into long lasting relationships.
What relationship will you have with your new connection: teacher, connector, mentor, thought partner, friend?
Make sure that every interaction is bringing you closer to what you want to achieve. This should not feel forced instead arrange sessions which organically bring you the results you desire.Make the effort to continue the conversation beyond the initial networking event (whether in person or digitally)
Be prepared to reintroduce yourself if some time has passed since your last reaction.
Schedule regular follow ups to continue to develop your connections .Get rid of the connections that do not serve you; value your time.
It might sound harsh, but if you are investing a lot of effort into the relationship, giving more than you are receiving or feeling disheartened after the interaction- this may be a sign that it’s time to walk away.
The connection may be a mismatch or changed over time- either way be aware when this is happening & have the confidence to let go.
Remember to always communicate, so that the other person isn’t left with any negative feelings or confusion.Have fun!
You are perfecting a life skill, it may not always go to plan, but you can enjoy the journey.