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Your Networking Kit
(Part Two in the Networking Series)
Networking is all about developing and nurturing relationships. It’s exchanging ideas and connections that help both of you achieve your goals. So your most important networking tool is simply to be interested in helping other people move forward.
As president of The Nierenberg Group, Andrea Nierenberg equips executives to “Find, Grow, and Keep”® the clients that are key to their success and helps them become better business communicators. She’s written several exceptional books on networking, providing simple, practical tools and “how to” steps on networking techniques. Million Dollar Networking has been a key resource on my bookshelf for several years. I’m looking forward to reading her latest book, Savvy Networking: 118 Fast & Effective Tips for Business Success.
There are just a few things you need to network successfully. (And remember, you never know when a networking opportunity presents itself!)
- Business cards
- Business card case
- Small notebook
- Pen
Business cards. Make sure yours looks professional and has your contact information on it. Include your social networking info (i.e., LinkedIn, FaceBook, Twitter, etc.).
Job seekers, business cards are a must even when you’re unemployed. It’s the marketing piece that’s easy to give away after you’ve made a connection. Check out http://www.vistaprint.com for a quick and easy way to create yours. They will create and send cards to you for only the cost of shipping, if you agree to have their website address on the back of your card. My suggestion: unless you are really financially strapped, pay the small cost of creating it without their website. It looks a little sharper and more professional.
Business card case. Use a business card case that allows you to separate your cards from those you get from others.
Small notebook. As you network, you are going to get names, ideas, and make follow-up commitments to people you connect with. Use a small notebook where you can keep your notes and promises. It looks a lot better than scrambling for a piece of paper at the bottom of your bag or pocket.
Pen. Pretty much explains itself!
Remember, networking is about giving first. These tools provide support to the most important part of your networking strategy—asking how you can help someone else achieve their goals.
Worried about what to say and how to even begin a conversation? The next post will help make that a whole lot easier!
