Strategies for networking as a leader

Networking is the unwritten rule of success and should never be started when you need something.?

Let’s start with few easy questions -?

• Have you been in a situation where you were not looking forward to an event ?
• In a networking event do you ever just pick up a brochure and stand in a corner?
• Even worse, are you the one who is constantly on your phone doing nothing in a networking event??

Having 500+ linkedin networks, being active in social media and then walking in a room full of people and not knowing what to do — this is today's reality!?

This is a very common experience for many people to feel nervous or uncomfortable in social situations, particularly when meeting new people.

It is important to build your network before you even need it and becomes extremely crucial while searching for a new job. Research has shown how professional contacts contribute to the development of the careers of executives of European and US companies. This is true for any leadership job and also it will impact your compensation. It’s simple, increase your “real” professional contact and get a raise , even a job!?

We have explicitly talked about Networking for Introverts in previous blogs but today let’s go deeper.

What is networking and what is it not?

Connections. It is as simple as creating meaningful connections. You have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in the future. It is all about connecting people, ideas and opportunities.?

Not Selling. It is not about selling yourself or marketing your brand. It is an organic process of building connections with mutual interests which takes us to the next goal.

Authenticity. You do not have to change yourself or try to “fit into” something. Be ok with not meeting mutually like minded people. Trying to present yourself in a way that others would like is not sustainable. So be okay with rejections. Look at them as dating the wrong kinds before you meet the right ones.?

How to start networking??

If you are new to this or answer YES to my above questions in the beginning then start small.?

Structured. There are various structured events which help you with networking. Join those first. For example : Roundtable Discussions or speed networking are some that are structured and you end up talking to individuals and gathering some information. Most of the people there are looking for like minded connections whom they can later meet 1:1.?

Outreach. Remember, networking starts before the event. Most of the event organizers send you the list of attendees before the event. If not, ask for it. Do your homework and send out a request to meet them during the event beforehand. This way you already have a few meetings and casual conversations lined up for yourself.?

What you should be aware of?

There are a few unsaid rules during networking.?

Intentions. Your body language tells people whether you are willing to participate or have anything to add to their network. In her TED talk, Amy Cuddy –? author of Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges, talks about how we can change other people’s perceptions — and perhaps even our own body chemistry — simply by changing body positions. It is all about changing your mindset. Look at it as an opportunity to learn and meet people with similar passion.?

Reading the room. A lot of this is taught in EQ sessions. Remember that many are awkward during these events. If you are trying to mingle, start by :?

• Finding those who are alone standing by themselves.?
• Avoid the “O’s” . Please standing with a closed net usually are either in deep conversations or already know each other and may not be open to connections.?
• Approach the “V’s”. Make your way to those you are in a group of two standing with a “V” shape. Usually that indicates they are having casual conversations and dont mind interruptions.?

Remember all these are frameworks. Once you go to these events once or twice, you will find your own rhythm. Be open to these meetings and look at them as exploring to the unknown, an experience to talk about!?

What not to do in networking events??

DO NOT start sharing your resumes. Hustling is always encouraged but no one is looking forward to your hard copies. Try to connect with them using social platforms like linkedin and make sure you do follow ups with them. Meet the ones whom you want to extend your network to in smaller settings.?

DO NOT make it all about yourself. You should definitely have a 15 seconds elevator pitch ready to introduce yourself. The best way to network is being a good listener and learning through the process. Making it all about you or being someone who will just keep giving a sales pitch about your job or business will push people away.

DO NOT keep quiet. Worse than making it all about yourself is not speaking at all. This portraits you as someone with less confidence and lack of passion. Remind yourself, everyone in that room is awkward in some way or form.?

DO NOT stop. Yes, do not just stop at a place and keep talking to someone you might have got comfortable with. You are not only blocking people from networking, you are also not taking advantage of this event.?

Lastly, look at networking as gardening. You are now sowing seeds so that you can reap the benefits later. At the end, it is all tied to building an army of sponsors and mentors who will talk and vouch for you when you are not around.?

Please leave your thoughts in the comments ? ? ? ?section!?? ?? We would like to share it with our readers.?

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