3 Things You Can Practice Daily To Build Your Network, without hustle!

When was the last time you joined a networking event?

I just came back from my first in-person event this quarter, and I'm buzzing with excitement.

Do you also get charged up by human connection? Let me know!

Re-living the power of a handshake, the eye-to-eye contact interaction, and witnessing the power of a smile when you make someone laugh in your conversation is priceless. However, these days #remotework allows us to choose to run our businesses without the need to mingle with others in rooms. But, I believe live networking events can not be replaced by virtual ones because the human interaction component is irreplaceable.

Do we need these interactions? No, we don't.

But, if you'd like to have them if you'd like to be invited to join the room again as a solopreneur, this article is for you!

3 Things You Can Practice Daily To Build Your Network, without hustle!

In my golden days as a business developer in Shanghai, from Monday through Friday it was totally normal to have in my weekly schedule attending at least 3 networking events. Why? well, this was the most common way to meet new business acquaintances, initiate new conversations, and invite people to work with me or refer my consultancy.

Needless to say, I built long-lasting friendships shaking hands in those rooms, some of whom are still part of my close circle of friends.

I believe the importance of attending networking events goes beyond business, meeting new people out of your actual circle allows you to expand your reach, and your sphere of influence, as well as stretch your comfort zone.

Let me ask you, would you benefit from practicing these 3 in business and life? If your answer is yes, here are the 3 daily online practices that get me to be invited to live events today:

1) Schedule time in your calendar, at least 20 minutes online daily, with the intention to connect to new people. How would you find them in the first place? Glad you ask!

Start by reading their work online and if you feel you've got something in common, reach out. There's no need to have an agenda, and this is not a sales pitch. Get out there with an open heart, nothing harmful can happen, on the contrary, you'll be surprised by the amazing humans on the other side of the screen.

2) Sign up for virtual networking events, and online mixers, to get the hang of introducing yourself, starting brief and interesting conversations in 2 minutes or less, and practicing listening more than speaking. These could be a video or audio-only events. I'd suggest trying both!

I like the saying: God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason. Use the ratio wisely!

We all want to be heard and recognized, right? then be that person for someone because someone else would be that person for you!

3) Google for #meetups in your city, and events organized by your chamber of commerce, get creative, and sign up. And, expect to be invited to local events by your new connections.

On the day of the event, meet, connect and follow up. Foster these new connections in the following days by establishing your common interest, and sharing your best latest work.

It goes without saying that the power of networking will open doors, will get you to stay sharp in your pitching game, and will get you in the circle of influence of your network. And most importantly, it will get you to practice being present full-heartedly, and not hiding your brilliance behind the screen.

If you'd like more tips on how to foster a calm demeanor as a peaceful CEO while moving the needle forward in your business, Slow Up is for you. Hit the follow button to receive my weekly notes right here on LinkedIn