There is no doubt; the world of networking can be challenging.
Even for the most confident amongst us, walking into a crowded room can be challenging. You might feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, or even embarrassed.
Despite what you may have heard, networking isn’t about promoting yourself or asking someone for a favour.
Networking, instead, is about building robust professional relationships and building a supportive community.
Let’s change that. Toss aside everything you think you know about it. And, start thinking of networking as building a community that supports one another.
Having a professional community can help your career flourish.
You’ll know who to turn to for particular services or advice, gaining insights into other industries as well as meeting with people who work in a field similar to your own.
Networking can also help in the job searching process, but it’s not exclusively for those looking for new opportunities.
Networking is merely developing new professional relationships.
Worried you don’t have enough experience to network correctly?
The good news is these skills can be learned and cultivated over time.
And If you can hold a conversation with someone you’ve just met, you’re on the right track.
Don’t worry; confidence comes with practice. You’re going to get the hang of it in no time.
To help get you started, we’re sharing our top tips for networking as a beginner.
Have confidence
Have you ever walked into a room and everybody in it seems incredible, successful and totally out of your league? Stop and remind yourself that you have something to offer as well.
Whether you’re new to the industry or you’re a seasoned professional, networking allows you the opportunity to connect with people at all stages of their career.
To stand out and build connections, you must have confidence in yourself and your professional skills.
Remember, networking relationships are not one-sided. You have something to bring to the table.
If you don’t know how you can be of value to somebody else, ask questions and make an offer.
Just a simple ‘If you ever need help with anything’ will do. A little generosity goes a long way.
Be genuine
Networking is about cultivating a genuine professional community.
Like all relationships, a strong network will be built over time, so don’t try and rush the process.
To attract a community, listen to some old school wisdom: be yourself.
Don’t try and put on a persona or feel you need to act a certain way.
Ask questions, be genuine and look for moments of connection. If you’re feeling incredibly nervous, remember to ask questions and practise active listening.
Don’t snub
Never, ever, judge a book by its cover.
It’s always best not to view a person by their titles. Be kind, friendly and honest with everybody because you never know where they may end up.
As cliche as it sounds, they might end up being the person interviewing you for a job in the future.
Quite frankly, people will notice if you dismiss a person as not important.
It’s not a good look.
Everybody has value, and it’s up to you to discover what that is.
Set a goal: you can start with something small like introducing yourself to somebody new by the end of the week. Or, challenge yourself and set a goal of meeting three or more.
Follow up
It’s the little things that count when it comes to building your community.
If you met someone you genuinely connected with, send them a short email saying you valued your conversation.
Consider taking it one step further by sending on an article or resource based on a topic you discussed which they may find useful.
What are some networking tips you’ve picked up?
