Do you hear “networking” and free associate with words like, forced, fake, costly, crowded, brown nosing, cold eggs, introvert, after-hours, irrelevant speaker or monopolized conversations? It’s time to reframe your worldview and get out the door.
If you’ve ever sent more than a dozen resumes out into the ether, you probably know the value of that personal connection. Various sources in recent years have estimated the proportion of people who found new jobs through networking to be as high as 80%.
Savvy business folks are involved in their communities and know that Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce and Franklin County Chamber of Commerce all host a monthly Business After Hours event. KVCC also hosts a monthly Women’s Network Luncheon, while MMCC hosts a monthly Business Breakfast gathering. Some of these events are free, and if not, they can be well worth the small investment to attend.
Even if you can’t get away from work or home, online business networking like Local BIZness Network is a search and a click away, with many groups created for niche industries and entrepreneurial projects. Although the goal is service-mission oriented, networking is inherent at local Rotary and Lion’s Clubs.
“A mountain of research shows that professional networks lead to more job and business opportunities, broader and deeper knowledge, improved capacity to innovate, and faster advancement. Building and nurturing professional relationships also improves the quality of work and increases job satisfaction.”
From “Learning to Love Networking,” Harvard Business Review
Other local organizations with regular gatherings include the Maine Women’s Network (MWN) Androscoggin Chapter and Business Network International (BNI) which is the largest business networking organization in the world. They have multiple chapters in Maine, including a Hallowell and Waterville chapter, and have several resources for making the most out of an in-person event with strangers, including the following pointers.
So, if networking truly is effective and accessible, the next time you glance at your calendar and see a networking mixer you want to skip out on, just remember that entering the room with these six pointers in mind will leave you looking forward to the next one.
Be authentic
Nothing erodes your confidence, credibility and trust like trying to be something or someone you aren’t. Experience, knowledge and kudos are meaningless when a first impression gives off insincere vibes.
… But be professional
Authenticity is key but presumably you are attending an organized business event and not out shooting darts. Dress well but add your favorite fun socks or snazzy scarf to the mix. Look people in the eye, stand tall and remember, grammar, tone and manners matter.
Listen more than you talk
Active listening should be a life goal in general because it is the best way to understand someone’s needs and how you may be able to help them. The speaker will feel respected which is crucial to building any relationship and leaves a lasting impression.
Be enthusiastic, not aggressive
Check yourself when you start pushing an agenda instead of working toward building a rapport with someone. Being pushy is right up there with being disingenuous on the networking list of don’ts.
Be positive
Negativity oozes from people in the worst way possible so avoid snark, sarcasm and complaining. Part of being positive is being humble and grateful for the opportunity to connect so instead of focusing on the ungodly hour, be thankful for the locally brewed coffee.
Follow up
Connect on LinkedIn and other social media avenues. If a solid connection or lead was made, pick up the phone. Based on your profession or networking goal (Heads up Creatives looking for work), the best follow up may even be a hand written or cleverly designed note.