10 Networking Tips, By Duvi Honig

Networking Is The Key To Your Dream Job (Even In 2018):

10 rules to harness the power of networking today

People still struggle to understand how crucial networking is in 2017, particularly how much more important than ever it is in the contemporary business world.

I was shocked…this is no joke…when just last year an established business owner asked me whether “networking” is a computer system.

1. Appreciate the Value of Networking

Before you go out on the field to network, make sure that you truly understand the value of networking.

2. It’s not What You Know, It’s Who You Know

You can have multiple degrees, and great talents, but if people don’t know you exist they won’t get you very far. The most important thing is to put yourself out there to meet those who will bring out your maximum potential and make the right connections for you.

3. Focus on the Proper Networks and not on the Weeds in your Path

I have witnessed many times people who attempt to network but lack a clear focus of who they need to meet. They get lost wasting valuable time and don’t meet the right contacts. They don’t know how to differentiate between the weeds and the plants (false hopes or those who take you for a ride), and the healthy relationships.

4. Don’t get Lost in the Woods, Create a Plan of Direction

Networking is like going into the woods. If you know your way, you reach the other side accomplished and successful, but if you don’t have a plan you get lost and can’t get out.

5. Don’t Be Shy to Ask Others to make Introductions

If you need an introduction made, don’t be shy to ask someone who can make the connection for help. If you hold back you will never get anywhere. The worst that will happen is they will say no and the best… well I’ll let you figure that out.

6. Prepare your Elevator Pitch (Before you get there!)

People have short attention spans. Be ready to tell your story in a sentence. Make sure to focus on the key points of who you are and what you do.

7. Create a Conversational Environment

Ask open ended questions that encourage the others to answer. This shows your interest in the other person and what he or she does. Be sure to validate what they say and show that it’s not only about you.

8. Give out Your Business Card

Be sure to always have enough business cards on you. It’s a plus if it even has your photo on it. It really helps people remember who you are. If you see that you are running low, go ahead and order more. It’s inexpensive and invaluable.

9. Don’t Expect Instant Gratification

Relationships take time to cultivate. Lack of immediate results does not equal failure. Unfortunately, today’s society teaches us to expect instant gratification and results. It’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t pan out on the spot. Remember fresh seeds take time to blossom.

10. Follow Up

Keep in touch, follow up, and let the relationship develop. Don’t just sit and wait for that phone to ring. Be proactive and follow up. People are extremely forgetful, especially busy and successful business people that are constantly networking and meeting new people. A nice follow up email, card or phone call will always leave its mark and open the window for you.

Mr. Duvi Honig is the CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, a global umbrella of businesses of all sizes, along with leading professionals, elected officials and communal activists. The Chamber empowers its members and the broader community to network with each other and harness this invaluable network to stimulate economic opportunity and positively affect the public policy of governments around the world.