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Networking: Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
(Part Four in the Networking Series)
Networking is all about developing the relationship. And the best way to get rid of some of the networking nerves is to focus on the other person. Make it about him and his needs.
Networking gets easier over time and with practice. Check out the business section in your local paper to see what networking events are scheduled in your area, what associations relevant to your line of work are meeting, and what clubs or groups that interest you have scheduled events. Then join them!
With your networking kit in hand and your conversation starters prepared, show up and discover how you can help someone else. Feel the fear and do it anyway.
If it looks like everyone is already in discussions when you arrive, pick a small group and walk up and say something like,
“I hope it’s OK to join you. You seem like a friendly group!”
It’s very likely there are people at the event who are more nervous than you are. So become the person known for reaching out. Invite others to join your conversation. Reach out with a smile and handshake to someone who is standing alone. Be the connector.
My friend Kathleen Watson is a pro at relationship marketing and business matchmaking. Her book, Net Profit: Business Networking without the Nerves, provides practical tools and action steps for honing your networking skills. She is also a fabulous networking coach. She can help you craft your introductions and showcase your skills so clearly that “prospects are standing in line to talk with you.” Wouldn’t we all love that!
Job seekers, networking is critical to your job search strategy. Each weekend, identify the networking events you’re going to attend during the next two or three weeks that will connect you with people who can help you with your job search. Then schedule those events on your calendar. If you aren’t sure how to create a job search strategy, click here and use “My Weekly Plan for Success.” I think you’ll find it helpful.
Follow-up is a must to building relationships. And yes, thank you notes matter. So when sending the information or making the introduction you’ve promised, use a thank you note that gets remembered. Bob Burg has a great notecard model. Using his suggestions, I created a personally designed notecard that looks different from everyone else’s. And since it has my picture on it, it’s easy for my new friend and colleague to remember who I am. Click here to learn from the master himself!
Who can you help move forward in their professional goals today? Who can you help with their job search? Reach out and make the connection. Watch for opportunities to build relationships. That’s what networking is all about.
Feel the fear and do it anyway.
