Networking is considered vital, no matter what it is you do...
But it's also something many people find awkward, uncomfortable, and sometimes simply an ordeal.
So here are my best tips to make networking much easier, and more successful, and that's online or in person.
Your Networking Offering
You know how it goes.
There's a whole roomful of people, all networking away, and it's intimidating.
Where do you start? Who do you talk to? How do you break into a conversation?
Even online it can be tricky, trying to establish some form of a connection without those critical personal touches.
So here's my shortcut, and it's my favourite tip:
- Make sure everyone knows you, and what you do in advance, and wants to talk to you
How do you achieve that little miracle, you might well ask?
The answer is to bring something of value to the session.
And I'm not talking flowers, or chocolates, or freebies. I mean knowledge and insights.
Don't be shy here.
Organisers are often desperate for a way to make these kind of events different, more interesting, and certainly more effective.
In the past, I've done everything from two hour workshops on how to get in the media, to two minute talks on how to tell a story.
Something like that, as a focal point of an event, whether it's just you or a series of talks can be a great centrepiece.
It also means everyone there feels like they know you, and what you do.
Which makes the wandering around, networking afterwards, so much easier, whether virtually or personally.
Networking is a Two Way Trick
There's one basic, standard, easy to avoid mistake people tend to make when networking.
They come locked in me-me-me-me-me-me, and some more me-me-me mode.
(With a dollop of extra me-me-me thrown in.)
Networking is a two way thing. Listen, as well as talk.
In fact, better still to listen much more than you speak.
Yes, of course you've got to get a few words in, and talk some more about what you do.
Keep your elevator pitch in mind, and use it when you need to, although don't make it too obvious that it's a pre-prepared spiel.
That's always a turn off.
But if there's one golden secret to making someone feel good about themselves, and warm towards you...
It's to get them talking about their work, what they do, why they do it, their life, their greatest achievements, and their plans.
They'll remember you much better, and far more fondly, that way.
The Networking Icebreaker
The first seconds of a new conversation are usually the most awkward.
So, having something to break the ice can be useful.
I've never boasted the best taste in fashion, but I am a fan of turning your weaknesses into strengths.
Which is why I never shy away from donning a demonstration of my dubious shirt collection at networking events.
(As you can see from the picture, it's a trick which seems to be catching on!)
Wearing a shirt like that makes me stand out from the crowd, which is handy, and not just by looking like a mugger for once.
But it also gives the conversation a starting point.
Most people will comment on the shirt, I can smile and be self-deprecating, the ice is broken and we're off into a chat.
Another less loud way to get a conversation going is to decorate your name badge with a little artwork of your own, or some kind of drawing or doodle.
I'm a fan of adding a smiley, which always draws the attention in a warming way.
Have a Good Networking Get Out
The nightmare scenario of networking is that one we all know too well.
The person who can bore the skin off custard, and you wouldn't want to see again even if you were shipwrecked on a desert island and they happened to be sailing past on their luxury yacht.
So, have a reasonably plausible get out up your sleeve.
If the room is noisy, I'll fish my mobile from my pocket, apologise and say, Sorry, I've got to take this.
I might even try, There's someone else way over there who I need to see.
I try not to be rude, and mutter something about having to get away before I suffer a brain bleed.
But I do sometimes, if I'm feeling mean, introduce the Bountiful Bore to someone else who might be equally uninteresting.
I suppose that's a form of subtle revenge for a tedious few minutes!
Follow Up On Your Networking
If you've got on well with someone, and you might just be able to work together, always follow up to reinforce the connection.
It can just be via email, but I come back to a favourite point here.
The best communication, and real relationships, come from personal contact.
Why not get together for a coffee, and the chance to talk for more than just a few minutes amid a melee of networking noise.
Everyone I've worked with, and now count as friends, I've spent time getting to know.
Ultimately, it's the only way.
In conclusion, don't worry if you find networking an ordeal.
I don't much enjoy it myself, and don't think I know anyone who does.
But it has to be done, so go into it with a brave heart, do your thing, and I hope my thoughts here help.
Finally, have you got any top tips for networking? I'm always keen for new ideas. Thanks!