Networking can provide multiple benefits, like helping you to secure a job, discover new business partners and mentors, and find new customers. But networking doesn’t always come naturally, so you’ll want to explore some great strategies to practice and use. Whether you’re networking online, meeting new contacts at an event, or strengthening your current relationships, remember networking is an ongoing process. Be persistent, stay focused, and apply these strategies for networking success.
1. Use unique opening questions
Meeting new people and starting a conversation with them can feel like a major challenge, especially if you consider yourself to be an introvert. The difficulty comes from having no frame of reference to use to start a conversation. So how do you strike up a conversation and build immediate rapport?
The key is to use interesting and creative opening questions. Introduce yourself and then ask them something interesting or specific to the event in order to go beyond the standard “What do you do?” icebreaker.
At some point the conversation you’ll need to provide more background about yourself, so have a relaxed but focused elevator pitch ready. Additionally, be prepared to end conversations politely by asking for a business card so you have more time to meet others at the event.
2. Debrief before the next connection
Networking events give you an opportunity to meet a lot of people, so remembering who’s who can be a challenge. You can overcome this by taking time to debrief after each conversation. Use an app to record vital information so you don’t forget key details that could potentially take your new connection to the next level.
3. Build and deepen relationships
So you’ve met new people, but how do you deepen those relationships? Always have a plan for deepening your connections. For example, if you have experience from a project that could help solve a new contact’s pain points, get in touch and share your knowledge. It’s important to have a practical reason to get in touch again and add value when you do.
As you deepen your connections, use a soft touch and ask them how you can help. Focus on building genuine relationships by finding points of commonality and showing you care like a friend. Simple things like asking insightful questions, paying attention, and responding with relevant questions can also help you build stronger relationships. Try to forget you’re working for the moment and get lost in the interaction by being genuinely interested.
4. Build your network with a goal in mind
While it’s important to be genuine when interacting with others, you need to build your network with a plan in mind. This means you should know what you’re ultimately networking for. What are your business or employment goals, and how will your network assist you with achieving them?
For example, you might realise you need a group of mentors or advisors to help you with your career, along with a sounding board team of people who have a similar mindset for support. Identify your goals and break them down into action points, like setting up a number of coffee meetings to touch base with new contacts each month.
5. Master LinkedIn and online networks
LinkedIn and other professional networks can be invaluable tools for establishing new connections and strengthening your network, but you should learn to use them in the most effective way. Some tips to keep in mind include personalising your messages, joining groups you’re interested in, and staying active by sharing interesting links and content.
Actively manage your online presence and make sure your online profile is detailed and up to date. Your online profiles can build trust and credibility while allowing new contacts to find out more about your professional background.
6. Become a superconnector
Add value to your network by becoming a superconnector. Supperconnectors think about contacts they have who can mutually benefit from knowing each other and then set up an introduction. As a superconnector, you’ll be generous with your connections and always ready to share, and this will help you maintain genuine relationships with your contacts. Once you’ve made introductions, don’t forget to follow up at a later date to see how the connection turned out. This lets you touch base with connections and shows you care.
Make valuable connections
Networking can supercharge your career or business, but it can feel like a challenge if you’re not applying the right strategies. Practice using creative and interesting opening questions, deliver value to your existing network by acting as a superconnector, and work at strengthening your relationships both in person and online through networks like LinkedIn. By building your connection with a specific goal in mind, you’ll likely succeed at networking.
Deakin Professional Practice Credentials provide learning and development solutions that measurably enhance the performance of individuals and the organisations they work in. As a trusted partner in corporate education and training, we offer unique insights and solutions for advancing your business and people strategy. To find out more about our workforce solutions, contact us today.