When it comes to networking I know half of folx are chomping at the bit while the other half are freaking out because they very much do. not. want. to!
But let’s take it back a step. I work with really, really smart people who for some reason don’t believe me when I tell them that 70-80% of all jobs are never posted.
Yup 70-80%! What that means is that sending your resume into 20 internet black holes is going to be WAY less effective than having one meaningful conversation with someone.
I try to impress on my clients that networking is imperative. That it’s a must-do. Now, I know you hate networking.
Everyone hates networking.
But if you look at it as a way to help other people by connecting them to that person who can get them their dream gig… boom!…it becomes a fun, heart-warming, do the good activity and not a smarmy sell-yourself, make it rain business cards, gross-fest!
If that doesn’t float your boat, look at it as meeting interesting people who share your interests and are… interesting.
That said, even if you get in the right mindset about it, official networking events can be really intimidating.
It’s absolutely easier to network at the smaller, less official events - but what do you do when you need to go to an “Official” Networking Event?
Here are my 20 tips to make networking events valuable, way less awkward, and yes… even fun!
(I know crazy right?)
20 Tips to Make Networking Events Way Less Sucky:
1) Set a goal to have 1, 2 or 3 meaningful conversations… TOTAL.
2) Yes, wear the dumb name tag (on the right side if possible) it’s really helpful for those who struggle with names.
3) Remind yourself of the value you offer!
4) Smile, but not all Joker creepy-like. Keep it genuine.
5) This is the time to be your best self and to listen. Meaningful networking means offering value and help to others, not just grabbing at anyone who can help you.
6) Say “hi” to anyone you know to get comfortable in the space and to get chatting - but keep it short and sweet.
7) Take a lap around the space. Check out who’s where, what’s where, etc.
8) Keep your right hand free for shaking hands (AKA keep your left hand free to hold your drink!)
9) The key to connecting is listening, asking open-ended questions and genuinely listening to the answers. Start with questions like, “What brought you here tonight?”
10) Offer your valuable help! After chit chatting for a bit, ask, “How best can I help you?” or “What’s your biggest pain-point right now?”
11) Introduce any people you know to other people you know. Even if you just met both of them 15 minutes prior.
12) If you’ve forgotten someone’s name (and they didn’t bother with the name tag) - be honest about it: “We met last year at the vodka launch, right? Of course, I remember you, but I’m sorry I’ve forgotten your name.”
13) Have your business cards in an easily grabbable spot (yes, actual cards).
14) It’s ok to break into conversations, especially in larger groups. Go ahead - introduce yourself.
15) Ending one on one conversations can be awkward - just hand over your card in a lull and say that you’d love to keep in touch, learn more etc. or you can say that you want to connect with a few more people before the event ends and ask for their card before scurrying off.
16) Even if it’s a boozy event, it’s ok not to drink! Or, if appropriate - go to town! Just beware of punch mouth.
17) Avoid sticking to the walls with your face in your phone. Get yourself out there!
18) Try not to go to these things on an empty stomach - because you want to focus on the conversations, not the tray of shrimp balls!
19) If you can introduce yourself to the organizer of the event, do it! They tend to be super-connectors and you want to know those people for sure.
20) Go with the goal of helping others and being “authentic” means you’ll form more genuine connections and build meaningful relationships.
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Phew. I know that was a lot right? But look, I don’t care what industry you work in, what role you have, what your goals are -- you HAVE TO network.
There are so many ways to network - find one that works for you.
Did you start to like the online events? Great, keep doin’ those!
You feel like you can only connect in person? Fine!
Speed networking at hyper-specific conferences? You do you.
Just do something.
Yours in make those connections goodness-
EBS
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EB Sanders
Career Coach for Creative Types
My Website | Free Stuff | Pinterest
Helping you figure out what you want to do and how to do it your way!
