Networking Tips

network / nétwerk n. & v. a group of people who exchange information, contacts, and experience for professional or social purposes. (The Oxford Dictionary)

Ask ten different people what networking is and you may get as many as ten different answers. A person's definition of networking probably depends upon their use of this important personal and professional activity. However, whether you network to develop your current career, explore new career options, obtain referrals or sales leads, or simply to broaden your professional horizons, it is important to focus on networking as an exchange of information, contacts or experience.

In any industry or career level networking helps you make connections in a personal way and build relationships of support and respect to discover and create mutual benefits. It is a skill set no serious professional in today’s business environment can be without.

Top Tips:

Make sure you have enough business cards but don't force them on people.
Set yourself a goal for the number of people you'd like to meet.
Remember to develop the conversation before going into your 'elevator speech'.
Remember the six honest serving-men. Their names are What, Why, When, How, Where and Who. [Rudyard Kipling, The Elephant’s Child 2004]
Give a referral whenever possible - but only if it feels right.
Describe your own products and services - but briefly.
Exchange cards – When appropriate, offer a business card, and ask the other person for one of his or hers.
Spend 10 minutes or less and don't linger with friends.
Write comments on the back of business cards received as an aide memoire.
Take time to debrief yourself. Write down the key points - keep a record.
Follow up with the people you meet. Do what you say you are going to do.
Start with a purpose. Identify the nature of the meeting; it does you no good to attend any networking function unless you define your objectives to know why you are there.
Don’t be afraid to read a person’s name badge, it’s often a conservation starter “I see you work for XYZ Ltd, what do you do? What’s your role?”
Never make assumptions about the person you are talking to. Everyone has friends, colleagues, relations and contacts, and one of them might be just the person you need to speak to ...
Have an effective handshake. This may appear obvious, but you have probably been on the receiving end of at least one "bone-crusher" and one "limp fish." Practice your handshake to avoid giving one of those yourself!
Networking involves WORK but used effectively brings REWARD. With preparation, effort and enthusiasm, you'll get a great deal out of it.

Remember – Those who give, get!