Here's how you can overcome networking challenges in the Consulting field.

In the digital age, technology is your best ally in networking. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn, Zoom, and professional networking sites to connect with peers and potential clients. As Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, emphasizes, “Relationships matter and technology helps manage them.” Leverage technology to stay in touch, schedule virtual meetings, and participate in online industry forums.

Given increasing complexities of professional networks, driven by increasing interdisciplinary, globalisation and multi-national remote collaborations, embracing technology is mandatory. As technology-supported networking is complex, it is important to be self-driven, decisive and savvy in the selection of a personal tech stack of tools for efficient business operation, and especially networking. Therein, selection of performant tools is crucial, as is focus on safety and good data governance in the selection of platforms, especially where sensitive information is stored and exchanged.

Establish specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your networking efforts. Stephen Covey, in "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," advises, “Begin with the end in mind.” Identify what you want to achieve from your networking—be it new clients, partnerships, or industry insights—and tailor your approach accordingly.

Importantly, in preparation of networking events, ensure to have a masterplan. This can include, working out of your CRM to be prepared on who you are meeting and to be efficient in follow-up - it is hard to take notes and write on business cards constantly while you are within a dynamic crowd at a lively event. Also, ensure to be focused and decisive on who you are interacting with about what content. Establish a "backlog" of contacts and topics you aim at achieving out of the event and focus on those - avoid distractions.

Your elevator pitch is your first impression. Make it compelling and concise. Daniel Pink, in "To Sell Is Human," suggests that a good pitch should be “clear, compelling, and curiosity-provoking.” Focus on articulating your unique value proposition and how you can solve the listener’s problems. Practice delivering it with confidence and authenticity.

Besides the usual advice on the form and structure of a pitch and the 100s of times successful protagnostis practice theirs, keep in mind that "you are the pitch" - much of audience's attention is visual as well, so ensure to focus on breathing, being self-confident on stage, practice body tension and posture, look at the first + last row, keep eye-contact, and smile occasionally. Signal good vibes and success - adding content will make a perfect winning pitch personality.

Following up is crucial in building and maintaining relationships. Dale Carnegie, in "How to Win Friends and Influence People," highlights the importance of showing genuine interest in others. After meeting someone, send a personalized follow-up message to express your appreciation for the conversation and suggest ways to stay connected. Timely and thoughtful follow-ups reinforce your commitment and professionalism.

Practice your memory-keeping skills. As mentioned before, it is hard and not practical to take notes, scribble on business cards, or to tinker with your cell-phone during highly dynamic social face-to-face events. Focus on listening, eye contact and on storing the crucial contacts to 100% follow-up on later.

Networking should be a mutually beneficial exchange. Adam Grant, in "Give and Take," notes that “the most successful networkers focus on what they can give, not what they can get.” Offer your expertise, share valuable resources, or make introductions that could benefit your connections. When you lead with generosity, you build trust and foster long-lasting relationships.

Actively consider yourself a member of the network as in a member of the team. Be sporty, team-play to win and think in terms of a soccer squad or other team-sports setting where no success is possible without your contribution - this is what differentiates networking from watching a match - the more you actively give in, the more you will get out of your network in terms of value.

Industry events, both online and offline, are goldmines for networking. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops where you can meet industry leaders and peers. As Keith Ferrazzi, author of "Never Eat Alone," advises, “Real networking is about finding ways to make other people more successful.” Engage actively in these events, participate in discussions, and follow up with new contacts.

Take the initiative to reach out and connect. As Simon Sinek points out in "Start with Why," leaders inspire action by being proactive. Don’t wait for networking opportunities to come to you; create them. Whether it's organizing a small meet-up, starting a conversation in a LinkedIn group, or sending the first message to a potential connection, being the first to reach out demonstrates leadership and enthusiasm.