Networking is an on-going process of building relationships with people you like. Make it a life long practice and you will be rewarded in the long term. Here are 8 tips to jump start your efforts:
1. Give more, get less > Offer book recommendations, people to connect with etc.
2. Be present > Don’t look around the room and search for the next conversation
3. Listen more, talk less > Big ears, small mouth
4. Think about long-term relationships > Don’t push your agenda on anyone right away
5. Do not over commit or feel guilty > It’s OK meet lots of people, but you don’t need to stay in touch w/ everyone
6. Be yourself and be honest > Straightforward but often overlooked
7. Take action right away > Make a connection, send that e-mail, etc. Do it right then and save yourself from tasks that pile up later
8. Only go to events that really excite you
Take a hard look at where some of your best connections have come from. Was it from traditional networking? Was it from another unexpected method? Make sure to replicate what has worked for you and focus on those positive networking experiences you’ve learned.
This is certainly not a complete list, merely just a start. I look forward to hearing your comments about what has worked for you?
Get In The Game!
~Matt
The new book by Career Coach Matt Crevin – Get In The Game – is on-sale now! Buy it here.