Networking 101 - the basics

Over the course of my career, I have honed the art of networking. Not all people feel comfortable actively networking, and many actively don't, but I enjoy it. I love the opportunity to learn about others and everything else it brings.

Never interrupt 2 people in a conversation!

No, really, don't. The only time you would do this is if they notice you and turn to include you - you will know if the time is right.

Greeting

Look the other person in the eye, shake their hand, repeat their name in a sentence, smile... they are free.

Be Inclusive!

If you see someone circling, or standing alone, invite them into your group - introduce everyone and what company they are from. 

Be a facilitator!

Make a connection for others if you can. Personal, business or funny connection, something they will all remember. For example: "Rob, meet Brian. Sorry to say, you are both Collingwood supporters, so you will have a little in common". Be careful with this type of introduction not to go too far. You don't want to offend, but it can give an instant "kick off point" for their conversation whilst also demonstrating that you know them both well.

Don't talk to the one person all night!

If you get "stuck" with someone it is ok to say "hey, we came here to meet people, do you want to come with me and we can jump into some of these groups?" and go off together to meet others.

Short of conversation?

Be a good listener! Ask about others. Ask 5 questions about each topic - drill down and show real interest. This will be handy in both your personal life and work life.

 Sitting at a table

Stand up, walk around the table and introduce yourself to everyone, suggest that you all change places after the main course. 

Be yourself

People want to know you... the real you. They don't want some artificial, line toeing clone. They want to have a laugh, be intrigued, learn and connect - business or social. Building real connections over commonalities is real. You don't have to share your whole personal life story either - there is a time and a place. At a business networking event, people will be interested in learning about projects you and your company are working on, how you are handling upcoming changes in the business environment, the pressures you are facing and how to over come them. Industry gossip.... they LOVE industry gossip. Having said that..... don't be a gossip - and don't breach confidentiality.

Meeting people's partners

Show an interest in them, ask about their life, career, kids, dog, hobbies and holidays. They are the ones who will be talking about everyone on the way home, who they liked, who they didn't, who they thought could ad value.

Connect

Connect with people socially on LinkedIn or the best platform for your industry. In some circles you will still exchange a business card, in others it will all be digital - go with the flow.

Drinking

Relax, have one or two or more if you can handle it - DO NOT have too many!  You don't want to wake in the morning not remembering what you said or who too. I think I can leave this on here.

Follow up

The people you met AND the organisers of the event. How nice to receive a message the next day from a new acquaintance saying it was lovely to meet. Choose for yourself if you also arrange a meeting at this point, it is personal preference. The organisers of the event will also appreciate a thankyou the next day and are well positioned to connect you with anyone you wanted to connect with, but didn't get to, treat them well!

Deliver

Deliver what you promised at any meetings. Make the connections you promised, send the information you promised.

Enjoy

Enjoy your networking and ask people for their tips. I have found that people truly appreciate a good networker in the group who shares information and connections freely.

Go forth and network my friends!

#networking #recruiting #sales #tips #recruitmentskills