Networking takes practice and skill. Consider these five tips as you continue to practice your networking skills.
Remember: Any time you’re out in public, especially at a social event, it is the perfect time to make connections with others.
- Always keep your eye out for networking opportunities, whether you’re at work or at play.
- When you attend a party, reception or networking opportunity, act as if you’re the host. Take time to introduce people to each other and make sure others are having a good time. Those at the party will gravitate toward you because they want to be near the “host.”
- Resist the urge to butt in to someone else’s conversation. However, make eye contact, and patiently wait for the contact to draw you into his or her circle.
- Become good at learning names. Never forget that one of the most impressive things you can do to become a good networker is to remember someone’s name.
- Do your research – prior to a networking, business or social event, review the expected attendees and make a note of individuals who are on your must-meet list. Use social channels such as LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. to get some background knowledge on their business and personal details. This will be a great tool to give you confidence in approaching these individuals and starting a conversation.
As an added bonus to this week’s weekly tips, download my “Get Out There & Introduce Yourself” worksheet here.