You’ve put together a great resume and you’re ready to network. You have been told that the most important thing to remember at a networking event is to make an impression. What should you do?
Here are five tips on how to best ‘package’ yourself so that others want to get to know you better.
1. Be memorable by being interested in others –
Understand their needs and problems enough that they know you are someone who can help them. Even if it’s just your enthusiasm about what you do or you understand about their business issues, everyone feels good when they needed! But don’t play the ‘I’m great, give me a job’ game. Play the ‘How can I be of service to you?’ game says Peter DeCaprio.
2. Be memorable by asking targeted questions –
Targeted questions show that someone has actually taken the time needed to prepare for an event so that they are not just trying to get their 5 minutes of fame or get your contact info. People respond very favorably when it appears that they really know what’s important to them and value their opinions because you did your homework about them! The more someone feels like you understand who they are and what they want out of life or work, the more interested in talking with them others will become.
3. Be memorable by dressing appropriately –
Depending on where you are and the occasion, dress like you would for an interview. Dress one notch up if you are in doubt about what to wear. If it’s a creative meeting, bring along your portfolio or some samples of your work! Let people get to know the real you by showing them who you are. This will help them see that there is more than just another face at the event.
4. Be memorable by smiling –
If you look like someone who is friendly and open, others will be drawn to approach you because they want to be around friendlier folks! So smile when entering the room so that others can pick up on how happy and interested in life you are even though networking events don’t always feel natural to everyone…smiles help others see that you’re okay and will make you someone they want to talk with.
5. Be memorable by asking for an introduction –
If it’s the right audience, ask if anyone knows someone that you can speak with during or after the event about a specific issue or people that would be appropriate for what you do. So many people show up but don’t take advantage of this opportunity to get connected with others! People love feeling like their time at events is valued and this provides another reason why they want to help out or connect them with their contacts!
And never forget: networking is about giving as well as receiving information and introductions so always leave before things start breaking down and getting competitive…and remember, everyone has something to give. It may not always be something that you need or want right then, but everyone has something that can help you in your journey!
FAQs:
Where can I find good networking events?
There are many good resources for finding networking events depending on where you live. The best way is to look in the local papers and business journals, or magazines to find out what your community has to offer. Also check with your chamber of commerce, women’s network or alumni associations at schools that you’ve attended. You might also try networking with friends, family members who work in companies that may be attending an event you’re not aware of!
What do I say?
Be prepared for this question!!! Have some notes if necessary about why it’s appropriate for someone to meet with you including talking points about what kind of business results one can expect both now and down the road (both by introducing you as well as doing business with them).
Conclusion by Peter DeCaprio:
Networking is a skill that can be learned and improved through practice. Go to as many events as you can, even if it’s just coffee after church or your kids game! It doesn’t matter how often you go to them, but the more times you do, the better you’ll become at meeting others in the room that could help support your company or future growth! Make it fun – not something to dread so much that you don’t take advantage of every opportunity.
