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Article Series: Networking
How To Successfully Network Yourself
Successful
Networking: 8 Expert Tips
Networking
is a crucial tool in the development of business and social
relationships. Knowing how to network
effectively can lead to success in both areas. Experts have
provided eight helpful tips on how to network productively.
The first hint on successful networking involves getting
out there. Whether its attending a party, going to a business event,
or joining an organization, the first step in networking is
getting involved. You cannot expect to make and develop relationships
without making yourself accessible to others. People need to
meet you and feel comfortable in order for networking to be
a success. For this reason you should try to involve yourself
in as many activities as your schedule allows.
Meeting new people and attending social functions is not enough.
You need to arrive prepared. This means you need to do research
on what events will be beneficial to you. Once you decide which
gatherings to be a part of you should do some fact finding
on the organization or people that will be there. By knowing
what to expect, and by being knowledgeable about potential
contacts you will stand out from the rest.
Thirdly, never leave home without your business
cards. Make
sure your cards include your name, address, important phone
numbers and an email address. They should also include a business
logo and slogan or tagline. You should give out your business
cards generously, even two at a time. The more cards you have
circulating at any given time the more helpful they will be.
Handing out your business cards is vital but it is equally
important to collect them from others. The proper business
card etiquette is that whenever you give out a card, you should
always ask for one in return. When you are given the business
card do not stick in your pocket or in your handbag. You should
take a few seconds to look it over to show your interest. You
should keep a pen available to jot notes on the back of business
cards that are given to you. These notes should include something
that will make you remember the person, or anything you committed
to do for them.
Next, you should have an effective
15 to 30 second pitch ready.
You should be prepared to introduce yourself and make your
contact aware of what you can do for them in 30 seconds or
less, because that may be all the time you have. You should
be passionate, energetic and personable. Have a few introductions
prepared that way you can use the appropriate one for any given
situation.
The
next expert tip emphasizes that you should not try
to sell during your networking attempt. Networking is about meeting
new people, making contacts, and building relationships, not
sales pitches.
Also, while you are at a networking event and meet new people,
it is important to ask your new connections about themselves
or their businesses. By asking questions you’ll be better able
to determine what you can offer them. In addition, people generally
enjoy talking about themselves, so being inquisitive will often
make you look friendly and interested.
The sixth expert tip is to be
a problem solver. When you approach
a new person tell them how you can be of help to them now o
in the future. Cutting to the chase is usually more appealing.
Also, when networking, you
should be assertive. This means
go up to people and introduce yourself; don’t wait for them
to approach you. Try not to spend too much time talking to
people you already know. While this might be more comfortable
it is not an effective way to make new connections.
Lastly, while at a networking event, you should behave
professionally.
This includes limiting your alcohol intake and dressing in
appropriate attire.
# # # # # SolveYourProblem.com : 2007
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