Learn to love networking: Top tips to network like a pro

Humans are social animals all hard wired for connection, so why do people often cringe when they hear the word 'networking'? I'd like to take this opportunity to talk about networking as an essential non-technical skill. For me it's a mindset and a commitment to yourself towards your personal growth and professional goals.

Three and half years ago I moved from Fort Worth, Texas to London with only a few loose acquaintances at my fingertips to begin building a social network. I'm someone who fears certainty over uncertainty so this move was extremely energising and motivating for me, and stretching myself outside of my comfort zone continues to be rewarding. A few years in and I am always constantly learning! Networking has been at the heart of my efforts to build a life for myself abroad.

Not the biggest fan of networking? A few points to consider to bring networking to life and reap the benefits...

FOLLOW YOUR BLISS.

Network in a context where the topics and people you will be engaging with bring out genuine passion(s) of yours. If you find the chat boring, you've not set yourself up for success regarding the gathering you've chosen to attend. If it's an event you are required to attend and this is out of your control, then you definitely need to...

STAY CURIOUS.

There is no such thing as a boring person! If you ask the right questions, everyone has a story to tell. Commit fully to being curious about the people you meet.

CARE PERSONALLY.

You don't have to stick to work chat and business language. Get to know the whole person.

MAKE IT EXTRACURRICULAR.

Networking isn't confined to events your company sends you on. Go to events and meet ups on your own accord. There's no pressure to produce an outcome other than exploring something new. Worried about the price tag? You'd be surprised by how many free events there are in London!

THINK LONG-TERM OVER SHORT-TERM.

Networking is a process because relationships aren't established in one interaction. Throw any expectations laced with immediate gratification out the window.

FORGET ABOUT 'WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?' IN THE MOMENT.

We've established it's a marathon, not a sprint. If you go into a networking situation thinking something like: 'I need to exchange at least 15 business cards for this to be a fruitful business development exercise', in my opinion you've got it all wrong. Stay present and your primary goal should be rapport building and learning. If you identify something you can offer the other person, do it! Give in order to ultimately receive... It doesn't have to be a huge gesture – it could be as simple as getting their details and sharing an article you think they'll enjoy, which creates another opportunity for an exchange off the back of it.

CONNECT YOUR CONNECTIONS.

If you meet people with similar interests, you now have the job of connecting them too. A network isn't made of two people, is it? The more your connections know other people you are connected with, the more cohesive and powerful your network becomes so that collaboration can thrive.

FLY SOLO.

Brave the waters and go to events alone. You won't have that friend or colleague you can cling to all evening.

SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR COMFORT BLANKET.

Put your phone away! If you are looking at your phone because you feel you have no one to talk to, you are making yourself utterly unavailable. Your head is literally down and there's no chance for eye contact. Position yourself in an open space (no hiding in the corner either!) with open body language... You might feel quite vulnerable, but ultimately you'll make eye contact with someone and your first conversation can begin. Remember: A lot of other people are feeling the same way, so they are likely to respond to your brave gesture.

IT DOESN'T END WHEN AN EVENT DOES.

Exchange details and continue to share knowledge! I am a huge fan of LinkedIn so I always look to connect with people through this platform.

MAKE IT INFORMAL.

Not as comfortable in formal situations? Why not grab a coffee or get a little creative? There's a park a couple of minutes walk from my office and I had a great meetup with someone I met virtually on LinkedIn (who is now a close friend!) where we picked up food from a shop on the high street and then headed to the park for a picnic table lunch.

Hopefully this has been some food for thought and motivation to get curious and get brave! In the modern workplace, relational intelligence is worth its weight in gold so make it a development priority. And try to have some fun while you're at it :)