Get Started Networking in 3 Easy Steps

Here are a few tips to get started networking.

1) Go to an event even if you don't want to.

Finding the time and courage to actually attend an event can be the hardest part about networking. It gets easier if you find an event you are interested in, and plan ahead by adding it to your calendar. Also, studies have shown that by making your commitment public and telling at least one other person, you make your accountability public, and are more likely to actually go.

"The key is not to prioritize what is on your schedule, but schedule your priorities." -Stephen Covey

2) Say hello!

Everyone is a bit awkward at these events even if they don't show it. So, when you get to the event, just smile and say "Hi" to whoever. I like to hit up the food table and make some random comment about the food, line, weather, or event. It's small talk that breaks the ice easily. It also helps if you do some research to see who is going to the event, that way you are prepared with a few faces and names or even companies that you are armed with information about.

3) Ask more questions.

Once you get a hello back, make a point to ask more questions. An easy one is, "What brings you to this event?" Journalist Bethany McLean wrote a great article on how you are interesting by being interested. Keep the conversation going by finding out what this person loves. You can ask them straight out about what they love to do, want to do, or what their passion is. It will definitely get the conversation rolling, and it's always energizing to listen to someone talk about what they love.

To learn more about networking, check out one of my favorite books on the subject: Keith Ferrazi's book, "Never Eat Alone". 

"The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity."- Keith Ferrazi