Does networking actually work?
Networking can be a daunting and expensive task. Once you factor in the time it takes to get to and from a networking event plus the time you spend at the event and the actual costs of attending it, you are left with the unquestionable need to evaluate whether it makes sense for you. Well, the answer is: it is up to you.
In the same way as your gym membership works only if you go to the gym regularly, networking will only work if you do your research, show up, and make it count. Have no fear; we are here to help you make the best of your networking experience:
- Make sure you can build rapport with the other attendees. Networking is all about building relationships, so make sure that you will have points in common with the other attendees so you can carry on a conversation and build a mutually beneficial connection. You can do this by attending events in your industry, where you will find your target audience, or events where the attendees might be able to connect you with your target audience.
- Have conversations; do not shove your card on somebody else’s face. Oh, if we had a penny for every time somebody came up to us, asked us what our name was, gave us their business card and left! This is the in-person equivalent to cold calling.
- Ask questions. And make them interesting. Conversations are a two way street. Nobody wants to stand in front of a complete stranger hearing him or her ramble about their business and their life. Listen to what the other person is saying and ask them questions about their business, their hobbies and their vacations. Businesses are run by people. Connect at a personal level and the rest will follow.
- After you establish a relationship with a contact, follow up. By ‘follow up’ we not only mean sending a ‘nice meeting you’ email. Try to connect with that person for coffee or lunch and see how you can help them. You will be surprised at what happens once you break the mold and strangers stop being so.
- After you attend the event, evaluate. Did you feel comfortable, was it a good experience, did you make valuable connections? If you feel you participated fully but only got a cheap glass of wine, it might be time to look for other events.
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