On Networking Groups ( Part Four )

Networking is an essential life skill. However, networking can be difficult without the right tools, a plan for your event, and plenty of social graces. This article will discuss all these points and give you some tips to ensure you make connections and recruiters with ease.

If you have found that your networking efforts need a boost, please read on . . . 

The first thing to keep in mind with networking is to plan ahead for any event well in advance. If it’s a small or informal gathering, think about what type of people will be there (usually easy if the invitation says) then think about what might lead them to want to talk with someone like yourself. If it’s a business event, look at what kind of people will be there (i.e. leaders in your field) and prepare to discuss things that they are interested in. Try to think about what might spark a conversation with someone you might not know.

The time of day is also important when planning to attend any networking event. For example, if you know that the event is between 5 and 7 pm, then it’s important to plan your work around those hours so you can attend on time and not be late or distracted by work issues.

Decorating and organization are also important when attending any networking event. Ask your host how their event is going and how they suggest you should go about it. Some hosts will be very clear with you as to how decorations are to be done, while others might just give some basic guidelines. Either way, make sure you follow through by applying the required decorations or at least attempt to look presentable.

When going to a networking event, always plan what you will say or ask first before going in person. This will allow you to take the time you need to think about things, which will allow the conversation flow smoothly and lead to a more active interaction than if you just show up at the event an unprepared and open for anything.

When attending a networking event make sure you have plenty of business cards on hand so that you can distribute them freely to those you meet. When giving someone a business card, don’t forget to put your contact information face-to-face. This means putting your name and company contact information in large letters on the number side of the card.

Planning is key when going to any networking event but make sure it doesn’t take away from the experience itself. Prepare yourself but also be ready to open up and talk with others as well. Try to become an active participant instead of just a silent observer to the event. If you make yourself a part of the conversation, then you will find that anyone will enjoy your company and want to talk with you.

Putting together your speech is also essential whenever you are attending any networking event no matter if it’s formal or informal. This speech should include what company you’re with or what position are in at the company, what industry your firm is in, how long they have been in business, and perhaps some personal comments about yourself.

Your speech can also include information about where the event is being held and who is sponsoring it along with other information about the people who are hosting it. Anything you feel is relevant or appropriate can be included in your speech.

When networking, remember that it’s always important to take the time to listen and learn about the other people there at the event. After all, you want to know who’s there and why they are there. These will give you a better understanding of what you need to do in order talk with them as well as what they have done so far themselves. It’s also important not to monopolize a conversation with another person at a networking event since this just isolates them from talking with others that might be around them at the same time.

If there is a special event such as a holiday party or something even more formal, then you may want to bring a gift or host them at an upcoming event. This will serve as a nice way to show your appreciation for what they have done for you in the past and promote future relations between both of you.

Always remember to be on time and make sure that your business cards are always within reach. These are just some of the things you should do in order to network effectively at any event. If you remember these tips, then networking will be much easier and more smooth than before.

Conclusion