How do I network?
This is the last part in a three-part series about business networking
So you’re ready to hit your college’s next alumni event. Or the local Chamber mixer. Or maybe you’re just getting together with some old high school buddies for a New Year’s party. Do yourself a favor and follow these how-to networking tips.
- Know Your Stuff: No one is going to want to do business with you if you don’t know what your business is. Memorize your elevator speech and be able to deliver it confidently to others. If you work in a highly technical industry, be prepared to summarize what you do to a layperson.
- Carry business cards: It would be nice if you could remember everyone’s name and they remembered yours. At smaller, more intimate gatherings, this in fact may be possible. But at larger networking opportunities, you’re better off taking a souvenir from each person you meet. And leaving a souvenir with each you meet. Make your business card memorable by writing a personal note on the back to jog the recipient’s memory after the event.
- Don’t be a mercenary: Focus on quality, not quantity. If you’re just focused on meeting as many people as possible, then you’re probably not going to be able to give the proper attention to any particular person. Sure, meet lots of people, but have a plan. If you don’t talk to a potential networking colleague, it’s not the end of the world. You’ll probably get another chance.
- Be yourself: And don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. You’re not Donald Trump. Yet. Eventually, people will figure out who you really are, your strengths and weaknesses, the good bad and the ugly. Potential business contacts will appreciate your refreshing candor
- Use common sense and good judgment: Don’t get drunk. Don’t tell crude jokes. Listen to people when they are talking to you. Carry some mints in your pockets. Don’t pick your nose. Don’t be rude or standoffish. Don’t make a pass at an attractive co-worker, … unless she is really, really cute. In others, present the best “you” to those you want to meet.
- Send a thank-you note: Nobody, and I mean nobody, does this anymore. And try to do it on an actual “thank you” note card. This will make you really stand out after a networking event
These how-to networking tips are just a start., though. Develop your own networking style. Find out what works best for you. After all, networking is not a science. It is an art.
