10½ Effective Networking Techniques
With current events in the news it is no wonder that we all feel as though we are on a rollercoaster ride. If we are not focused, then anxiety about what the future holds could result in a state of paralysis and the mindset that events are out of our hands.
Take control with a spotlight on the art of networking. What better way to find out about the 'word on the street' in your business community.
Taking time out to network will be time well spent to keep you up to date with how other businesses are coping in the current climate.
The 10½ tips below will help you to consolidate relationships and establish new ones.
1. Networking can happen anywhere and everywhere
Networking is a very important part of business. It helps you to meet people, build relationships and generate new business leads.
Generally, when people look to network they often think of the typical business setting: the business lunch, speaking events, award ceremonies etc. Whilst these are very important, it is worth acknowledging that networking can happen anywhere, for example: at your children’s school gates; the locker room at the gym; ordering your favourite beverage at a coffee shop; and in the stands of a football ground.
Always be aware of the networking opportunities that you may be faced with when you step outside your door.
2. Go to the right networking events
There are many networking events on offer, but it is important for you to select those that will be most beneficial to your business. When you are at the event make sure you optimise every opportunity to speak to the right people.
However, make sure you don’t ‘over network’. Going to too many events will cut down the time that you are able to stay focused on your everyday business demands.
3. Preparation is crucial
Preparation is key to a successful networking experience. Many events will provide a delegate list before the meeting takes place. This gives you the opportunity to identify the people that you want to talk to, thereby ensuring that you use your time at the event most effectively.
Make sure you go to the event well equipped. Be sure to take plenty of business cards to give to prospective clients. Set yourself a target of getting the business cards of three useful contacts from each event that you attend, i.e. potential clients, referrers and connectors.
Be knowledgeable about your business and act as an ambassador. By thinking about the event you are going to you beforehand, you will be well prepared to deal with any eventuality.
4. Adopt the right mind set
Be positive and confident. Being negative will give people negative vibes and they will not go out of their way to talk to you. By being at ease and relaxed, your body language will invite people to come and talk to you. Be friendly but professional, this is not the time to tell people the jokes you heard last night in the pub.
5. Relax, what is the worst that can happen?
It is very common to be nervous about networking, having to generate conversations with strangers whilst exuding a wealth of knowledge to show your company in the best possible light. Everyone is in the same boat. It may not appear that way when you look around the room and see people chatting away but many of them will be as nervous as you are. No one is going to be offended if you ask to join their conversation. Take a deep breath, and just ask, ‘Can I join you?’.
Business cards are a great invention. If you are asked a question that you are unable to answer don’t panic. Exchange business cards and make a note of the enquiry. At the first opportunity email the contact with the information they requested. The situation which probably made you feel uncomfortable can result in another point of contact with a person who could turn into a client.
6. Arrive early and leave late
Arriving early demonstrates that you have a professional approach. It will give you an opportunity to get familiar with the environment, speak to people as they arrive and you can even ask the host to help with introductions.
By leaving late you are increasing the time you spend at the event and therefore optimising the number of people you can speak to.
7. People love to talk about themselves
Are you ever lost for words when networking? You are not alone. To initiate a conversation, smile, offer your hand and tell them your name. It’s that simple!
To start, ask questions which will give you an insight into who they are and what they do. Listen attentively and build rapport in order to take your relationship further. You will find that some people just love to talk! Be assertive and make sure that you get the chance to be heard.
When asked about yourself concentrate not just on what you do but highlight the benefits of your company. Let them want to know more.
8. 10 minute rule
How long should you stay talking to one person at an event?
To enable yourself to get the most out of networking and to meet all the people you need to, set a time limit of 10 minutes with every key contact.
Any less than 10 minutes and you won’t have made a connection to enable you to take the conversation further. Any more than 10 minutes may mean you have missed out on meeting other possible key contacts.
9. Close conversations
This can be the hardest part of networking. How do you close a conversation and have a positive outcome?
A good close of a conversation would be to get the other person’s business card and to receive agreement for a follow up meeting to explore areas of mutual interest over an informal coffee.
10. Deliver on promises
After the event, it is important to evaluate your time spent there. How else will you be able to assess whether or not you have met your goals, and so made the best use of your time?
Have you spoken to everyone you wanted to? Did you get your three business cards? This does not have to be a formal affair, just answer the questions in your head as you leave the event. This will either make you feel positive or more determined to meet your goals at the next event.
Effective networking is all about building positive and fruitful relationships. If you have agreed to answer a query, to phone, e-mail, or send a piece of literature you thought would be useful, make sure that you deliver! Create a rapport and start to build their trust by delivering on what you have promised.
10½. Learn from the best
If you wanted to be the best footballer, you would look and learn from the experiences of the best in the business. This is the same for networking. Choose your networking advisor carefully. Identify someone who has experience and is good at networking. Ask them for some helpful and insightful tips to enable you to become more confident and to get the most out of every networking opportunity!
This months Famous Feet
The team caught up with Rachel Elnaugh, Business Entrepreneur, at the Institute of Directors East Midlands Business Leaders Dinner.
Rachel Elnaugh wears a size 6½
What our clients say about us
Size 10½ Boots created innovative sales and management training solutions, tailored specifically to our needs. During the entire training cycle Size 10½ Boots were attentive to our company's exact requirements - spending much more time planning and researching than previous training providers and remaining contactable for both delegates and managers throughout the programme.
Douglas McPherson, Regional Director, SPG Media Limited
Famous feet
Oprah Winfrey
TV host
Shoe size: 10½
