HOW TO NETWORK LIKE A PRO

Knowing how to build connections and strengthen relationships is an essential skill in the working world. Being able to network effectively can mean the difference between having a mediocre career and a successful one.

As you progress into the working world, you will find that having an expansive and effective network hasplentyofadvantages.Fromproviding a vast avenue of job opportunities to helping to grow your reputation, this means the earlier you can build your network, the more you will be able to benefit from it. However, networking can be an intimidating experience, especially if you do not know how to do it right.

The main aspect of networking is to get yourself out there and mingle with people. Be it through online events or physical ones, the goal remains the same – to make meaningful connections with others while developing your professional network.

While the initial experience of networking can feel daunting, fortunately, this is a skill that can be honed with enough time and practice, so here are some tips to ease you in.

Networking like a pro

Do your research

Whetheritisacareerfairoracampus talk, any professional event presents an opportunity to network. Take the time to find out who the attendees are and do your research on them.

For example, if you know there is an architect at the event whom you wish to connect with, you can read up on the latest architectural trends before the event to prepare yourself with interesting nuggets of information to share in the conversation.

Stay in touch

Remember that your main goal is to professionally connect with them, so refrainfrombeingcarriedawayinidle chitchat. However, just because you have them in your network does not meanthatyouaredonenetworking–youstillneedtocontinuemaintaining your connections.

You can start by sending thank-you messages to your new contacts for taking the time to speak with you. If you added them on LinkedIn, you can also engage with them occasionally, such as reacting to their posts and replying to their comments.

Once you find someone you are interested to speak with, ask sound questions related to the topic you want to learn more about, but refrain from hogging all of their time. If you sense that they are getting restless, do not be pushy. Let them go politely by ending the conversation. Before they leave, be sure to ask them for their professional contact information, such as their email address or LinkedIn profile.

Remember that networking is reciprocal, so let them talk about themselves too. Whether it is about their interests or career journey, try to find topics that can engage both parties. This will make it easier to establish common ground and keep the conversation going.

If you happen to run into them again at another event, you should take some time to catch up with them. It will help you stay memorable to them and establish a rapport.

Network tips for recruitment events Network tips for conferences

Prepare your elevator pitch

It can be hard to give an introduction that is not only engaging but memorable as well. That is where an elevator pitch can come in handy, so be sure to have it prepared before the event. With plenty of employers looking for new hires, this is the best time to use it!

Plan out your schedule

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Be an active participant

As scary as it might sound, your best chance of becoming (and remaining)visibleattheconference is to be proactive and actively engaging with others. Whether it is voicing out your answers during breakout sessions or asking a question when the floor is open, try to seize the opportunity to speak up.

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Put your best foot forward

Conferences hardly have a lull period, with plenty of talks and panels scheduled throughout the day, sometimes they even run concurrently. As such, knowing the event’s schedule will help you pick out which session you wish to attend and which to skip. After all, with conferences lasting up to a few days, it would be impossible to attend every activity without any breaks.

First impressions are important, especially if meeting new people face-to-face. From the way you carry yourself to the type of attire you wear, all of this will play a part, so make the effort to dress for the occasion.

As for virtual events, people may primarily form impressions based on how you communicate. With that in mind, speak properly and professionally by using full sentences and addressing recruiters appropriately. If you speak fast, try to slow your pace so people can hear and understand you better.

Update your LinkedIn profile

If you plan on utilising your LinkedIn for networking, make sure that the information on your profile is up-to-date. After all, it would not make a good first impression with a new contact for them to click into an empty profile!

When you attend a session, be prepared with questions for the Q&A section, or to converse with the speakers or other attendees to build connections.

2 Come prepared with good questions

However, be sure not to hog the spotlight to yourself, lest you come off as being self-centred and rude. Instead, maintain a balance by commenting occasionally or sticking to asking just one question. This way, everyone will have an opportunity to participate, and you will learn to make your chances count. 3

Even though networking is your main objective, this does not mean that this is all you do. Start by taking notes and gaining as much knowledge as you can so you can ask good questions when it is time for the Q&A. Being attentive and asking insightful questions will help you create an impression and lead to others being more receptive to speaking with you later on.