9 Tips to Network Effectively
By: Lauren Marsicano
Insta: @networkingmaverick
9 Tips to Network Effectively
During the 2020 COVID pandemic, we had to move our networking online. We attended panels and other events on Zoom. Set up phone calls with potential connections. Contacted people on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or other social media platforms. It was amazing that we still had the option to network virtually. And the world of business networking will probably be forever changed by this most unique of years. But connections are not made as quickly or strongly in a virtual space as they are when we meet in person.
Luckily, after a very long year, we are finally getting back to in-person networking events. So, making business connections will become less labor-intensive, and more organic and fun.
It's totally understandable that some of us might be feeling that our year-long hiatus from the world of in-person networking has set us back in our ability to connect to others. But you know what? Those skills are still there. And if you keep reading, you can use these 9 tips to network effectively again.
1. Make time for it.
“I’m too busy to go out and meet people. I have to work.”
Does this sound familiar?
Networking is one of the keys to business success. And making time for it can sometimes be the most difficult part. Dedicating one evening a week to networking is ideal. But if you can’t take that much time out of your calendar, try to attend at least two per month.
It’s best to have connections before you actually need to ask for favors. If you wait until you need a new job or run out of clients to start networking, it’s too late.
When we have a strong need for something, we may try to rush relationships. Yes, even business relationships. You want to avoid asking someone for a favor too soon into the relationship or asking complete strangers for favors. So make networking part of your routine to have a strong network to turn to for help.
2. Set goals.
When you’re just starting out in the networking world, it’s totally normal to go to every event, and try to meet everyone. But once you’ve made some connections, and attended many events, you want to get more intentional.
Choose events that you know will generate leads or powerful connections.
Before buying your ticket to a networking event, know your why. Are you looking to spread the word about your business? Do you want to start working in a new field? Are you looking for a new job? Do you want to get support from your peers? Whatever you are looking to do, make sure that your goals align with the event and the people attending.
Your goal can be as simple as: I will connect with 3 people in a meaningful way at this event. Or as lofty as: I will introduce myself to the CEO at this event, and invite them out for a coffee.
Whatever goal you set, know your why and who’s attending to get the most out of your experience.
3. Get out there.
If you ever feel like your connections need a refresher, you might want to go to events outside of your social circles, groups, and professional associations.
Get out there. Shake hands. Or fist bump. (Whatever is customary in this post-pandemic world.)
Attend events that are being held by groups you aren’t familiar with. If you own a dog walking and sitting business, talk to that woman getting a drink at the bar. You might find that she has her hands so full as a working mother that needs someone to walk Fido. You just never know where you will meet your next client, collaborator, boss, or business partner.
Being open-minded and talking to people in very different fields from yours can be an excellent way to expand your network.
4. Reach out first.
Be the first to reach out to a new connection. If you feel they could help you grow your business or move up the corporate ladder, don’t wait. Many times, people will reach out to me a few hours after we attend an event. It leaves a great impression and shows you are interested in continuing to form a working relationship.
5. Build relationships.
Networking isn’t about handing out business cards to everyone you see at an event. In this situation, quality is preferable to quantity. It’s about forming and building relationships.
Do not be the first to ask for a favor. After you’ve helped someone, and the relationship is sufficiently strong, ask them for help. Asking for too much too soon can turn people off, and they might stop responding to your messages, emails, texts, calls, or DMs.
You also want to make sure that the help is given and taken in equal amounts.
Make those relationships strong so you can help build each other up.
6. Add value to every interaction.
Aside from ABC - Always Be Connecting. My second favorite acronym is AAV - Always Add Value.
If there is a way you can help someone, do it. If they need to be introduced to someone, try your best to make it happen. Introduce people within your network. If you meet someone who is struggling to keep up with their marketing, and you know someone who specializes in social media, connect them. They might be able to help each other. And they will have you to credit for such a fruitful business connection.
When you always bring value, people are more likely to want to keep their relationship with you strong.
7. Listen and learn from others.
Networking is most effective when you focus on what you can do for others. It’s true that networking is about finding connections that will benefit you. But, like in any other relationship, it’s also about listening and learning how to help the other person.
If you are stuck in your business, ask for their thoughts and opinions. This shows that you value what they have to say, which helps strengthen your relationship. And it could potentially solve your problem at the same time.
8. Keep in touch.
In networking, as in sports, it’s all about the follow-through. If you say you’re going to share a source with someone, do it. Did you say you’d text them? Do it. Show up in the ways you said you would.
Touch base with those important connections you want to keep in your network. Usually, checking in with them once a month is enough.
If it’s been a while since you reached out, remind them who you are, along with where and when you met. And don’t ask for anything right away. Work on rebuilding the relationship first, and help them first, before asking for anything.
9. Be open.
Ok, so you have your plan. You know who is going to be at a networking event, and what you want to say to them. Great!
Now is when I tell you that plans are awesome, but also, be prepared to connect with people you didn’t plan to. Let’s say you’re a graphic designer who went to an event to connect with a large marketing firm, but the representative from that firm doesn’t seem interested in speaking to you. What do you do? Well, you’re not going to let the whole event go to waste. Start talking to people you’ve never met before. You may find a writer who needs someone to design a book cover, and boom! You found your next client!
Be open to collaborations, clients, partnerships, everything, and anything. Things may turn out even better than you planned.
Here’s one last unofficial tip: Be kind to yourself. As things keep opening back up, we might expect to flawlessly network like we used to. But placing these expectations on ourselves can make it even harder for us to connect effectively. So take it slow. The more you practice, the more you’ll polish those effective networking skills.
If you want tips on effective digital networking click here.
Happy Connecting!