Networking Tips

If you are a shy person, don’t feel as though you need to jump head first into the deep end of the networking pool. Start small by talking to people you know, who can then introduce you to people you do not know.

When out and about, you don’t always have to talk about yourself if you are not fully comfortable doing so. Start a conversation with someone and get them talking about themselves.

If you’re going to an event for networking purposes, don’t feel like you have to talk to everyone. If you take the time to get to know just one or two people well then it will have been a successful networking event.

Listen to a conversation before joining in. This way you will not feel as though you are out of your element and you will not have to say anything until you have something useful to say.

Always keep in mind at networking events that everyone is there for the same reason…to network. Don’t forget to ask the people around you what you can do for them. You might be able to help them out, even if they cannot help you at that point. What matters is that a contact has been made and they might have the opportunity to return the favor down the road.

Don't be a phony. Networking is an artform that can be studied, learned and practiced but you still need to be yourself. People can usually see through a facade even if they don't say anything. You'll have the greatest success at networking if you promote your individual agenda in a very natural and professional manner.

Be sure to avoid questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no. Go for open-ended questions that allow for discussion as this shows that you are interested in the networking conversation.

If you are a shy person, but know that you need to network, join a club or social group for something you are interested in. For example if you like to read, join a book group. If you like to play sports join a local group that plays for fun. When you get there, you already have something in common with these strangers to start talking about. Once you have that down you can move on to other topics. Congratulations you just expanded the network of people you know.

Prepare and practice what you are going to say when you introduce yourself to someone new. This will help to build your confidence up, and it will become easier with each new person that you know.

When it comes to networking, the best thing that you can have is a since of humor. If you are not able to laugh at other people’s lame jokes, or even yourself, then you are going to be miserable.

Kick Mr./Ms. Negativity off your shoulder. You don’t need thoughts like “They will never like me so why bother” running through your head. You know you are a great person…networking is about telling the other person that.