7 Tips for More Successful Networking
Want to improve your skills in a way that’s more authentic, empathetic and productive? Read our top tips for more successful networking.
By Kim DiNicola
Networking is a critical part of anyone’s professional journey, but most people dread it.
In fact, research shows that networking literally makes us feel dirty and humans are hardwired to hate the entire process. However, it may not be the networking we hate, but rather the insincerity and one-sidedness that’s often present at so many professional events and (if we’re being honest) on platforms like LinkedIn.
The good news is that networking is both an art and a science, meaning that we have an opportunity to learn from trial and error, as well as hone our skills — ultimately making it better for everyone involved.
To help make the process a little bit easier and a lot more enjoyable, we’ve gathered leading research and advice from industry professionals, career coaches and social researchers.
If you’d like to improve your skills in a way that’s more authentic, empathetic and productive, read on to learn our top seven tips for more successful networking:
1. Know that networking isn’t just about getting a job
Too often, people focus on what they’ll “get” out of a connection, but it’s important to consider that effective networking is a two-way street. In fact, sometimes the most productive networking happens when you’re not looking for anything in particular.
Instead of just focusing on outcomes, prioritize the connections themselves. By building relationships based on shared interest and mutual respect, you can foster deeper and more long-lasting relationships that also bring more potential for future collaboration.
2. Do your homework
As you network, arm yourself with the right information. Too often, people are simply seeking a connection without having put in the work first — and this can lead to broad or brazen questions that come across as impolite or naive.
Take advantage of the tools in front of you. Scan LinkedIn, trade publications and market research to stay ahead of trends. Review job descriptions to better understand titles, responsibilities and projects that interest you. And, most importantly, take the time to get to know the people and the companies you’re meeting with so that you can ask more pointed questions and showcase a genuine interest in their work.
3. Sell your story
Everyone has a story to tell, but it’s important to know how to “sell” it. Take some time to structure your personal pitch — highlighting your present work, past accomplishments and future aspirations. With this approach, you can help the other person understand who you are and how you’re trying to grow (personally, professionally or socially) without being too general or too forward.
Additionally, it can be useful to practice tailoring your story based on context, ensuring that any shared information is both relevant and helps to support positive, sustained interactions.
4. Compile your “greatest hits”
As we’ve mentioned, good networking isn’t a one-way street. Take some time to curate your key talking points and online presence to showcase what you can offer to others in your network and your industry. While it certainly helps to have a formal portfolio, this can literally be as simple as taking inventory of what makes you special.
Avoid just focusing on your accomplishments too — nobody likes the “honored and humbled” posts. Nobody. Focus on what actually interests you, what you’re actually proud of and the change you’ve actually fostered beyond basic KPIs. Let your passion lead others to want to learn more.
5. Consider how you communicate
Good networking starts with good communication, and good communication starts with purpose. Instead of blasting emails out to potential contacts, consider what you’re hoping to accomplish. Why this contact? Why now?
As a general rule, always personalize any outreach, don’t bury the lede and be sure to express your gratitude. Be courteous in your introduction and make your goals clear and concise. Most people will appreciate the effort, as well as your consideration for their time and attention. In many cases, the easier you make it to communicate with you, the more willing other people are to respond.
6. Be engaged at every level
Regardless of your experience level, you can establish a stronger industry presence by staying on top of relevant events and communications. This will help you ensure that you’re making the most of available opportunities, while also giving you something to talk about with your peers.
It’s also equally critical to be engaged at a personal level — both in terms of relationships and individual conversations. Where appropriate, make sure to exchange contact information and follow up accordingly. While it probably goes without saying, we’ll say it just in case: genuine interaction and follow-through tend to go a lot further than one-sided, opportunistic exchanges.
7. Get creative
When it comes to making connections, look beyond the obvious. Former colleagues, business partners and school alumni are obviously all useful contacts, but also consider alternative avenues, such as friends, friends of friends and events and associations.
Whether you join a professional organization or simply search for industry conferences and meet-ups on sites like Eventbrite, more targeted and sustained activities can provide more opportunities to find what you’re looking for and prove your talents along the way. Good networking is more about improving your life than simply improving your career, so why not make it part of your routine?
With the right perspective, you can make networking less of an imposition and more of an opportunity.
As you head into your next professional event or informational interview, take that time to focus less on what you’ll get and more on what you’ll learn, how you’ll grow and who you’ll connect with along the way.
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