The benefits of “knowing people” are very real, in personal and business settings. And that, really, is all that networking is: putting yourself out there, making contacts, working with others who have something in common with you. If you’re not comfortable reaching out to make strangers part of your network, here are eight ways to get started:
1- Keep this first and foremost in mind: you’re
networking to GIVE, not to GET. What help can you offer this acquaintance? It could be as simple as a brownie recipe, or as important as an opinion on the reliabilty of the brand of car you drive. Networking is like a bank account: you have to deposit into it before you can withdraw from it.
2-When you’re there, be present. Pay attention. If you’re thinking about something else (how’s the shop doing? Did that important consignor stop in while I’m here? Do I have spinach in my teeth?) you will miss important information and cues.
3- Listen more than talk. Ask questions and let the other person talk without interjecting your opinions, experience, viewpoint.
4- But don’t interrogate. You want a genuine dialog with the other person. The more you speak together, the longer-term your connection will be.
5- Don’t overcommit. If chairing her committee or mentoring his nephew is going to be too much, offer what you can comfortably give: taking on a single aspect of the project, not the whole thing; agree to meet the young man for coffee, not to train him in whatever skills he might need.
6- Along the same lines, be honest. Don’t make false promises. If you don’t know (and aren’t interested in learning) how to create stunning centerpieces, say so, and offer a talent you do have… you can research and report on the availability of inexpensive fresh flowers for the event, perhaps.
7- Take whatever action you offer immediately. Do not wait for the recipient of your offer., expertise, or effort to contact you. Step forward.
8- And finally, only go to gatherings and meetings that excite you. If you’re lukewarm on helping with that cause, wait until some more interesting networking event comes up. But stay open to suggestions and opportunities.
Auntie Kate The Resale Expert 