Lately, I’ve had a lot of people ask me for tips on how to get the most out of their networking. So last week, I wrote a post on the very basics on how to network.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how important networking is now that more people are looking for work. But more importantly than finding a potential job, networking helps you fine tune… well, yourself.
When you’re networking, you talk about yourself. You might say something you’re not too sold on so by the next time you network, you may change up your description of yourself. This doesn’t happen over night and by a few weeks or months of networking, you have your description of yourself down packed and your confidence is through the roof.
You also learn to ask questions. At first, your questions may be simple and obvious, but as you network more, you learn to really listen to the person you’re speaking with and learn to ask more probing questions. Questions that will provide you with more answers.
You will also learn to read people. The more you talk to random strangers, the more you pick up on certain signals that they send – they can be excited to hear what you have to say, bored, or just waiting for you to finish talking so they can talk about themselves.
Networking offers a plethora of exposure to opportunities and I’ve found that the most beneficial opportunity it offers is learning the lessons listed above.
You can be out trying to land a new client or interviewing for a new job when you notice these skills kicking in:
- You’ll find yourself very comfortable in a situation where most people work up a sweat in, but because you spend so much time networking, you’re comfortable around strangers,
- You know how to listen to others and ask the right questions,
- You’ve also perfected your pitch – who you are and what makes you valuable,
- Most importantly, you know how to read the person you’re meeting with. If their facial expressions and/or body language aren’t the ones you’re hoping to get, you can guide the conversation to where you want it.
Networking is very important and you’ll always get something out of it, so make sure to get out and meet as many people as possible. If you’re feeling adventurous, go to an event with an organization you’ve never gone to where you won’t know anyone at all.
Astennis coach for many years i can tel u that i got a good skills learning Ito read the other person, the way he thinks, how he feels, and how it reacts to certain times of pressure. This is not easy to achieve but is the goal, as a teacher, if you want the other person to perform at their fullest potential
I like the idea of using these events as a practice session. If you are a shy person, what a great way to get yourself out of your comfort zone. The next time you meet with someone you’ll be more comfortable talkingabout yourself to strangers. One thing I’d like to add about networking events.
Don’t Just Sell/Sell/Sell !!
There is nothing more annoying then attending an event and then being bombarded by sales calls and emails to buy a product or service. This s a big NO NO in my book. This is not why I attend events. Think about what you’d like to accomplish before you go. Meet a specific person. Learn more about a topic.
What you should do is seek to find answers to questions or look for people who you might be able to help. Networking is about meeting new people and growing your professional contacts. What can you offer to help others?
I couldn’t agree with you more, Tracy! Thinking selfishly when attending these events will come back and bite you. Everyone should focus on growing their contact base (like you said) and with time and if the relationship is harnessed the right way, people will come to you requesting your services. Thanks for the addition