12 Sep 10 Nifty Networking Tricks That’ll Make You A Pro

Does networking feel scary, boring or like hard work to you? It doesn’t have to. Here’s how to enjoy chatting to strangers – and get meaningful return on your networking buck.

Written by Daniela Cavalletti

7 min read

Networking and connecting with others: it’s vital to being in business. Whether as owners or employees and job seekers, we all do a lot of networking these days. Be it face-to-face, or via social media and other online channels. It keeps word-of-mouth marketing going, and helps you find new staff, clients and trusted suppliers (or a new, better job). It creates community, support and, ultimately, cements your livelihood.

10 Networking Tips That Actually Work

Networking comes naturally to some. But not everyone feels comfortable to talk to strangers; to start a conversation or talk about themselves. Online, this often seems easier as we have time to prepare our points and reactions, to fine-tune our responses. We don’t immediately feel watched, appraised and judged – simply by being physically present in a room.

So how will you get the most out of the time you put into face-to-face networking for your business?

Try this for starters:

#1. Plan Wisely: Focus + Objective

Before you even go to an event, ensure you choose the right one. What are you networking for this month, quarter, or year? You might or might not need new to business right now. Instead you may be looking for a new supplier or staff member. In advance, do think through whom you want to meet and why. Practice your business ‘elevator pitch‘ – tailored to whom you want to attract. While your business is of course the same, a prospective client is looking for different information and aspects than a new employee. And be prepared for questions such as: what sets you apart from your competitors? Who is your ideal client, or who is a good referral partner? What are you most proud of? Questions that go deeper, and are a good way to connect more meaningfully. Try and ask them yourself.

#2. Fit In, But Stand Out

Is the networking event fairly casual, or terribly formal? An informal “BBQ + Beers” summer event on a Friday afternoon will require quite a different outfit than turning up for a gala dinner. Think about what you’ll wear in advance (yes, you too, gents). Turn up in neat, appropriate and wrinkle free outfits. You don’t want to be that person sticking out like a sore thumb, including when the event-photos go up on social media. Nothing faster these days than online posts to make or break a first impression … with hundreds or even thousands of people. But you don’t have to be bland either: it’s ok to have and show off your own personal brand that is unique and recognisable. Just make sure you’ll get noticed for all the right reasons.

#3. Arrive Early – and Leave Late

People will notice you better in an emptier room, so turn up on time or a tad early. This will give you a chance to talk to the host(s) before they’re swamped, and you can ask them to introduce you. That way, you’ll get the maximum opportunity to meet the people you want to meet. While nibbles and wine are all very nice (especially when they’re good, free and plentiful), that’s not why you’re going to a networking do, you’re here to work. So make the most of the opportunity, be highly visible – and stay until things wrap up.

#4. Bring a Ton of Business Cards

And also marketing materials, if it’s that kind of event. It’s always baffling to me how many talented people with wonderful businesses or skills go networking without any or enough business cards on them. How is that new connection going to, well, connect with you after the event if they don’t have your details? Or for that matter even remember your name a week later? Apart from missing immediate opportunities, you are likely to leave an unprofessional impression if you don’t bring this one networking essential along with you.

#5. Be Interested + Listen Carefully

“What do you do?” is a valid question at a networking gig. But too many conversations end there. Pure hard-sellers – who talk only about themselves, and only ask minimum-requirement questions about others – will (rightfully) be written off as rather rude or pushy. Communicators who genuinely care and give their conversation partner their full attention create deeper and longer-lasting new relationships. Try asking about the most exciting project someone is working on, and tap into their passion. Talk about other things than just business; connect on a personal, human level. And, if the setting allows, share your challenges with each other and show support.

#6. Book a Meeting, Right There & Then

Grab the opportunity you have created for yourself. Depending on the kind of event and how focussed the networking format is, arranging a meeting with a new prospect or connection on the day locks in opportunities straight away. For both of you. Post-event life can get hectic – and, if not taken care of straight away, that follow up runs the risk of getting forgotten. By them, as likely as by yourself. If there is a genuine reason to stay connected, plan your follow-up chat right there and then.

#7. Talk to Someone You Don’t Know

You need to work the room, not just gravitate to the easy option: the people you already know. While they will have goodwill towards you and can make useful introductions, they are also people you can connect with any other time. It’s easy to gravitate towards familiar faces, but you are here to meet new people. Grab that person you know if your confidence is still a bit wobbly, but go and find a stranger to talk to. Go and spot the connectors in the room – they’ll likely know other people you want to meet to and happily create that introduction. Head for engaged, open groups of people that draw others in – they’re actively networking.

#8. Be Useful, Not Greedy

Don’t get caught up in the ‘what’s in in it for me?’ mindset. Networking – like social media marketing done well – is not about making a sales; it’s about building relationships. So instead of looking out for number one only, make it your goal to genuinely help and support others. Instead of simply talking up your own services or products, or focussing on getting something for you, try this instead: offer your time, interest and help. This simple kindness – if genuinely offered – is far more powerful. Instead of wondering how someone can be useful to you, try asking “What can I do to help you?” 

#9. Act Like the Host, Not Just a Guest

Do welcome new people; be inclusive, warm and open. Chances are, many of the visitors to the networking event are feeling a bit lost and unsure when they try to mingle. Helping them feel included and welcome will also help you relax, feel in control (good for those nerves!) – and have someone to talk to, too. Be kind, and engage the ‘lost’ people in the room: they can do with a friendly face to help them get over any shyness. And you might just make a great connection in return.

#10. Become a Regular 

Like any relationship – a new friend or a new partner – new business relationships will also need a good foundation of trust. Plus time to grow and solidify. Which means creating opportunity for multiple interactions is key. Many networking events take place weekly, or are similarly scheduled-in-advance affairs. After a few times attending you will find you know a good portion of the regulars, have started to build trust and new associations, plus still meet new faces. Check out your local Chamber of Commerce, industry lunches, Rotary Clubs, networking organisations, etc. – and join up.

BONUS TIP – Follow Up, Follow Up, Follow Up

Many opportunities vanish into thin air when, after the excitement of the event, the promises of getting in touch are forgotten. Business cards got lost, or a follow up is left far too late. Be courteous and do what you said you would do (call, send information, make an introduction). Strike the iron while it’s hot when you’re given a great opportunity. After all, it’s up to you to make the most of the time you invested in the networking event. Invest it wisely.

Big Bang for Your Networking Buck

This handful of networking tips is of course not all there is to successful, engaged, profitable (and fun!) networking.

But … they’re essential steps to becoming visible, creating credibility and establishing an excellent network based on trust and goodwill.

If you focus your networking efforts on making lasting connections and giving before you gain, then your business growth will take care of itself.