networking skills
Written by Svenda Scholey
In business, networking is the linking together of individuals who, through trust and relationship building, can become walking, talking advertisments for one another. You already have networking skills - acknowledge them and make greater use of them. Svenda Scholey offers top tips on getting the best out of networking opportunities
Networking is a great way to expand the world you live in. Meeting new people and/or furthering relations is about being genuine and authentic, building trust and seeing how you can help others. It is an efficient and [relatively] inexpensive way of reaching many people - make every connection count.
Everyone in your life is part of your network, and it's probably bigger than you think! They can help you and you can help them. You should learn wht you can about each individual and acknowledge their skills, experiences, talents and needs.
Every kind of network:
- Family - tap into their knowledge and networks.
- Friends - have skills you may not be aware of. They have their own networks. Ask to be introduced.
- Neighbours - your location gives you a unique chance to develop closer ties. Find out who your neighbours are.
- Clients - you serve them and have built up a relationship of trust. Ask them to help you in various ways as suppliers, supporters and referrals.
- Co-workers - you may spend more waking hours with these people than you do with family or friends. How well do you really know them? Find out more, you may be able to help one another.
- Clubs or Association members - if you are involved with any community or professional associations or activities, you have a ready made network. The door is already open.
- Volunteer groups - people often volunteer to meet others and feel a part of something. Get to know your fellow volunteers better.
- Acquaintances - you meet dozens of people in work and social settings. Don't waste these opportunities, ask people about themselves.
- On-line networks - the internet is the home of may networking opportunities. be selective, choose those that interest you most and take advantage of the newsletters and on-line discussion group opportunites.
Top tips for networking
- Be open - to new idea, opportunities and people.
- Be prepared. Know what you are seeking and how others may help you. If someone asks you "How may I help you?" - what would you say? Have a clear understanding of what you do and why, for whom, and what makes your doing it special or different from others doing the same thing.
- Choose your networking groups. Pick groups that spark your interest and may help you get what you are seeking. Many formal networking groups will allow you to visit before joining up.
- Give just to give. Do not give with the sole purpose of getting something bak. Networking is a two-way street.
- Treat everyone as equals. Value is in the information and support people give, and that often comes from surprising sources. A net work is a level and fair playing field.
- Ask for yourself. Your closest associates don't ofen help you when they might because you don't tell them what you need.
- Be courteous. Listen to others when they speak. Don't monopolise the conversation. Get to the point quickly. Thank the people who have helped you.
- Circulate. Talk with as many people as you can at a networking event. Establish identities, needs, goals and resources. Handle detailed discussion at a later date.
- Ask open ended questions - who, what, where, when and how questions rather than ones that can be answered with a simple yes or no. Open questions open up the discusssions and demonstrate interest.
- Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given. When people give you referrals, your actions are a reflection on them. Respect and honour that.
- Call those you meet who may benefit from what you do and vice versa. Let them know that you enjoyed meeting them and ask if you could get together and share ideas.
Get networking!
Strangers include friends you have not yet met. So, find someone who looks interesting, introduce yourself, ask them open questions and let the conversation flow. Make connections, meet people, make contacts, exchange ideas and interact. Enthusiasm is contagious - have fun!