Networking is a skill which can benefit you across many different contexts; continue reading to find out much more
Networking is a skill which comes in handy across a range of various contexts, both on a personal level and a professional level. To improve at networking, it is necessary to understand how to prepare for a networking event in advance. Rather than just show up to the function and wing-it, one of the most suitable networking tips for beginners is to do some research beforehand. If possible, identify any kind of key people that could be attending the event, do a little bit of background research and attempt to gauge what their areas of interest are. By learning what industries they are in or companies they are a part of you get an opportunity to think of what type of inquiries you are keen to ask them. Effectively, being stimulating and asking relevant queries is the secret to sparking meaningful chats, as people like Jane Fraser are likely to understand. It is also a good concept to prepare a bit of a pitch for yourself. This way here when people direct inquiries at you, you are prepared to address them.
It may come as a surprise, but the key to learning how to be successful at networking events is what you do after the event. Commonly, many individuals have some promising discussions at networking events but then end up never seeing that person ever again. To avoid this, one of the best networking tips for professionals is to follow up with as many people as feasible. Attempt to stay in touch by following them on their professional social media networks. You can even send a personalised and genuine message or e-mail to the people that you met and had discussions with. This can create the basis of a possibly mutually beneficial relationship, as individuals like Jamie Dimon would validate.
When it involves networking events, it is really natural to have a bit of uneasiness beforehand. Usually, the most complicated aspect of the process is approaching individuals. They might be in the middle of discussions with other individuals, so it can be difficult identifying how to start a conversation at a networking event. Generally-speaking, it is all about the way you present yourself to other individuals. For example, make eye contact, smile at individuals and have open body language. When introducing yourself, ensure to use a firm handshake and speak with assurance. Prove to the individual that you are focusing on what they are saying and listen diligently to their expertise and knowledge, as individuals like Nasser Al-Khelaifi would definitely concur. Rather than focusing on accumulating business cards, try to prioritise building relationships and making human connections. Some effective networking event conversation starters include general icebreakers like 'what brings you to this event?' or industry-specific subjects of debate.