Networking — Working a room really shouldn’t be work!
I know I know the word “Networking” can send some people into frenzy quicker than Oprah could if she were to give away a house to everyone in her audience. You can relax in knowing that several people in this world feel just as nervous when walking into a room full of strangers but the last thing you want is to leave them with the impression that they have just been “worked”. So with that said, below are some tips to help you relax, make a good impression and to remember to be yourself. People do business with people they can connect with and like. The point is to build a rapport with a few new people instead of meeting everyone in the room.
1. No need for an ice breaker, a simple introduction does the trick
People tend to gather in groups, maybe for safety purposes, and if you are not ready to tackle a group of folks then look for the others in the room that are clinging to corners kicking dust or hovering around the food. They will appreciate you helping ease their level of comfort just by extending out your hand and saying “Hi, I’m Mr. Network Guru with Company X, is this your first time to this event?” and now you are having a conversation. For the most part you have all gathered here to tell a little about yourselves so make sure to ask their name, company they work for and what the company/ they do in the market place. Asking the questions first gives you an opportunity to listen and see if you might know of people or businesses in common and how you might be able to help one another in business.
2. Remain focused on the person in front of you
Many times when we do not know anyone in the room we tend to keep looking up and scanning the crowd or watching as people enter the room. Don’t Do It! Make a conscious effort to remain engaged with the person you are speaking with in order not to come across as rude or disinterested in what they are saying. People do take note of first impressions and more than likely you will run into them at another networking event and you wouldn’t want to be remembered in this light.
3. Don’t be afraid to make an exit
Well, let’s be sure not to just walk away because that is not a good idea, but there does come this awkward moment when you would like to introduce yourself to other people and that is perfectly acceptable. Simply excuse yourself by stating how nice it was to meet them, thank them for taking the time to chat with you and exchange business cards (since you did remember to bring them right?), and continue on your way to connecting with others at the event.
4. Follow up by following through
This is important; if you tell someone that you will follow up with him or her then by all means do exactly that! Even if there wasn’t a true business connection made where you see some immediate benefit, at least send a message restating how nice it was to meet them and you hope to catch up with them at another event very soon. You never know how this person could benefit you in the future and this goes back once again to good first impressions. They could introduce you to your next biggest account down the line.
5. BRING BUSINESS CARDS
And the top most important networking tip to remember is (there should be a drum roll with David Letterman’s face attached) your business card! Don’t forget the item that has all the information you cherish most when it comes to knowing who you are, what you do and how you can be reached. We’ve all done it and it’s the worst when you discovered you walked out without them so make a note to put those little golden tickets in your pocket before you head out the door. Networking is about building a network of people you know and trust who also know and trust you. Do not worry about working an entire room, work on connecting with people at your networking event.
