Networking 101
As a millennial with nearly 20 years in the working world under my belt, I’m guilty of taking for granted some of the basic skills I’ve refined that might not be so obvious to someone new to the working world.
One such skill that was recently brought to my attention is networking.
So much in life is all about who you know. I’ll die on that hill – it’s so true!
If you’re new in the business world, networking is one of the best ways to get ahead.
Whether you’re in sales and looking to build relationships with prospects, or looking to grow your career and network with industry peers, the fundamentals are the same.
Here are my best tips based upon what’s worked (and where I’ve failed miserably and learned):
If you attend an in-person event, force yourself to socialize with people you don’t know. Yes, this will be uncomfortable, but you’ll never grow your network if you hang with people you already know. Keep reminding yourself: You didn’t go to this event just for the fun of it, you went with a goal – to meet new people.
If you’re at a standing/mixer type event where you aren’t committed to a certain table all night, divvy your time up amongst a few different people. Don’t get sucked into a conversation with one person the entire time.
If you find yourself trapped and can’t get away (it happens to the best of us!), excuse yourself to go to the bathroom. (Don’t say you need another drink because the person might join you for a trip to the bar – but most people don’t follow you to the bathroom. 😉)
For anyone you want to continue the discussion with, be sure to get their card. You may have a good memory but if you meet a bunch of people, you may forget their name or company by tomorrow.
Don’t word vomit what you do all over someone the second you meet them. Your best bet is to be casual and approachable, find some common ground to connect over - sports, kids, hobbies, etc. Later you can pivot the conversation to a business one.
Relationships take time. If you’re trying to build centers of influence to grow your sales efforts, it will take more than one interaction with someone for them to feel comfortable and confident enough if you and your abilities to send their trusted clients your way. If you meet someone who’s a great fit for you, putu something on your calendar to check in with them quarterly. Treat them to coffee, lunch – or meet up at the next event. Cultivating relationships takes time and a concerted effort, but it’s worth it.
“These tips will help you increase your prospecting efforts, and keep you top of mine in your industry for career opportunities. As I tell candidates, it’s never a bad thing to have people know who you are and have a favorable impression – you never know when they might be looking for a new hire, new insurance agent, etc. 😊”