Networking is important and necessary for you both personally and professionally. However, with today’s technological age, some people find it hard to appropriately communicate with others. Here are some tips for networking effectively.
Be authentic
There’s nothing worse than sounding disingenuous when you’re speaking to someone. No one wants someone who talks with a salesperson persona. It doesn’t matter what setting you’re in, whether it’s business or personal, make sure that you’re coming across authentic. Do your best to concentrate on the person you’re talking to. Take off your business hat for a second.
Listen first, then talk
Have you ever found yourself thinking about what you’re going to say next in a conversation? Well, if that’s the case, then you probably aren’t hearing what that person is even saying. Take the time to fully listen to them. Then, pause to think about your response. That way, the conversation will flow more evenly.
Consider your goals
Before you speak to someone, ask yourself, “What are my goals for this conversation?” They can be anything from landing a sale to getting to know the person better. Whatever your objective is, try to the keep it in the back of your head at all times.
Draft an agenda
There’s no such thing as overpreparing for something. Although you want your networking conversation to come off causal, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a plan in mind. Jot down a few questions before talking to the person. If you’re speaking over the phone, you can have this piece of paper sitting next to you in case you forget about them.
Ask open-ended questions
You want the conversation to flow nicely, not be choppy. Make sure to ask questions that can’t be answered with a yes or a no. That way, the person you’re speaking with has the floor to talk freely. It may even lead you into topics you didn’t consider. In addition, it makes everyone in the conversation feel more comfortable.
Stress meeting in person
Sometimes we can’t get around to talking on the phone or through email. But if you can meet in person, definitely do it. Talking to someone face-to-face is a completely different experience than through a computer. For one, the conversation will flow much more organically, and also, this way you can actually put a face to a name. Over the computer, it can be hard to represent our personalities correctly because everything in writing is so much more up to interpretation. However, in person, it’s easier to come across as your true self – which is the goal.
Thank them afterward
It’s important to thank the people you networked with – no matter how the conversation ended. This can be done a number of ways. An invite on LinkedIn is one of the most popular ways to connect, or some people opt for a quick email. However, if you truly want to stand out, send them a thank you card. Not many people will remember an email that they’ll delete eventually. A physical card will showcase your professionalism.
Follow up
After you’ve done all your networking, it’s important that you follow up. Again, this can be done through technology; that’s the most common way. However, this is another opportunity to send a greeting card. It’s a classic way to connect with people that’s sentimental and serious at the same time.
Do yourself a favor and invest in an assortment pack of greeting cards for all special occasions so no matter the event, you’re always prepared.