The New Networking: Strategies for Building Real Relationships

I’m always on the lookout for articles about networking. Here are a few snippets:

Some people make it look so effortless and easy when they engage in a new conversation. The best networkers have mastered the law of attraction. They are likable, helpful, emotionally intelligent and thoughtful.

The successful people you seek to network with likely have well-documented achievement in business and life experience. The leaders you meet who can help you most may easily pick up on when someone is enamored by the financial returns of their success. These same people will feel your authenticity when you engage them with genuine passion. Building a precious new relationship with someone that has an abundance mentality is a process. Remember, it will not happen from one meeting alone.

1. You only get one first impression.

Energy is the most powerful force on earth. Remind yourself that you are an energy magnet and everyone will be attracted to you. Then, smile and practice it. Expect that people will like you and want to be your friend.

Giving your best introduction, and one that will make you stand out, will not happen automatically. Building relationships starts with thoughtful communication. People judge you and draw initial conclusions about who you are within seconds of meeting you. You only have one chance to make a memorable first impression. What you are in terms of job title and degrees is not as important to someone as your character and who you are.

2. Deliver a relevant message.

Communicating a relevant message is very important. In order to do so, you must be aware of who you are talking to, what subjects you are speaking about and of course why should someone listen. Research your audience, relevant news and current events before attending. Invest your personal time to come prepared with talking points and appropriate questions. Consider connecting with attendees, conference organisers and even keynote speakers on LinkedIn with a custom message saying you are looking forward to seeing them at the event. This proactive approach will signal that you are interested and serious about their time and yours.

3. Be present and avoid multi-tasking.

It's the era of smartphones and stupid people. Isn't it ironic that technology brings us closer to people far away but takes us away from people sitting next to us? People feel welcome when they are heard and listened to. Being present in the moment is key to earning trust and respect, which is a precursor to building relationships.

4. Utilise social media effectively.

How frequently do you check your Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter or Snapchat on your phone? Networking and building relationships are functions of both in-person and digital interaction.

Social media platforms revolutionise how we communicate and accelerate our access to information. People may be too busy to return a phone call, but they are consistently present on social media. As such, having a representative presence is important.

Today, we can access almost anyone from a device that fits in the palm of our hand. Create a positive internet reputation for yourself and ensure you are well represented online.

5. Learn to listen, and listen to learn.

When we speak, we share what we already know. When we listen, we learn. Being a good listener is not optional, it is required to build new relationships. When meeting and communicating with new people, we often unintentionally interrupt or cut off someone we just met. Introverts have a competitive advantage here because they use their ears and mouth proportionately. As a loquacious personality, I have learned from the failures of talking too much and now benefit from this life-long opportunity for improvement. People derive happiness and satisfaction from talking about their ideas, knowledge and experience.

Want to know more? Head on over to the full article here for more ideas and perspectives. Afterwards, why not drop me an email to share your thoughts at [email protected] ; or call me on 0467 749 378.

Thanks,

Robert