Ten ways to network like a champ How many times have we heard “it’s not about what you know but who you know”? Networking has never gone out of style and it is skill that deserves attention even today. So here are ten ways to get it done properly:
Make a Plan First—Make a plan about where you want to go. It doesn’t really help if you are networking with everyone and their dog but they can’t help you get where you want to go. If you know where you want to go you will also know who you need to connect with on your way. It takes a lot more planning than people think.
Talking and Listening Second— Know what you are talking about before you go talking with people. You want to sound educated when you talk to people. Third— Show that you really care by listening to them and asking thoughtful questions. Everyone wants to have someone listen to them and this is especially true in Networking. Communication is two way and if you are ready to listen people will be much more receptive to what you have to say later on. Keep others in mind when you are in a conversation. Fourth— Be the go-to-guy that people want to know. Don’t act needy because that only scares away future networking options. This also requires patience as you learn that not everything happens in one day. Also realizing that developing a relationship of trust takes time is part of this too.
Respecting those you are Networking With Fifth— Respect your contact by treating them the way you would want to be treated. Just remember if it would be annoying if someone did it to you then it is probably the same for them. Sixth—Don’t open a whole can of warms the first time you meet them. It is better to gradually ease your way into things. Seventh—Make sure it is ok that you make them an “official” contact. Nobody wants to be solicited but on the other hand people are always willing to help as long as you ask for it.
Eighth— Don’t be a diva or make unnecessary demands. Be realistic and realize that you probably won’t get much without building a reputation with the person you are networking with. Definitely do not be one of the entitled individuals that feels like they deserve something. This is hard to swallow, especially for many of the self-made workers you will meet on the way. Ninth— Remember the old principle “Ill scratch your back if your scratch mine”. This applies for networking as well because there will be many opportunities to help out the people who help you. What comes around goes around in networking. The more that people understand that the more longterm these relationships will be. Overall networking is not something that can be done in one day. It requires time, patience, and diligence. But by following a structured plan you can keep building relationships that matter and they will prove more useful as time goes on. Photo Credit: stroinski , duchesssa