Techniques to Elevate Your Networking Game
I don't know about you but 2023 has provided me with a lot more networking opportunities.
And since networking can be both fun and terrifying at the same time, here are two of my "go to" tips you can use to show up as confident as Don Draper in a Mad Men episode.
1. Create Engaging Conversation
When it comes to networking, conversation builds connection. And strong relationships are paramount!
Start by being interesting and not just relying on questions like:
“What do you do?”
“Where do you work?”
“Where are you from?”
Yawn.
Although these questions are fine, they are ones that we’ve heard 8,892,009 times and require little thought.
Pro tip.
Instead of generic questions, wake the other persons brain up and get them out of auto pilot by moving quickly to topics that make the other person scan their brain for answers.
Questions such as:
“What’s the best book/movie/show you’ve seen lately?”,
“Any exciting projects you are working on?”
“What was the highlight of your week?”
“Been anywhere fun lately?”
Questions like these require the person to think of positives and allows you to easily find common ground.
A good conversation is like a captivating performance, leaving your networking counterparts wanting an encore!
2. Choose the right spot to stand.
Strategic positioning is key.
When entering a room, assess the layout and identify areas of opportunity. Position yourself near high-traffic areas such as entrances, refreshment stations, or focal points of interest.
Pro tip.
Stand in a place that allows you to greet someone after they have just settled in like at the end of the buffet area or bar.
When you are a friendly face at a time when people are ready to connect and network, you are a valued conversational partner.
Imagine…
Turning around with a plate of food and not knowing anyone.
Now imagine turning around to a friendly face!
Be the person who welcomes others over and makes people feel included.
When you do this, you become a networking hero! And who doesn’t want to be a hero?!
Crafting engaging conversations and strategically positioning yourself allows you to gracefully navigate the room. Remember, the art of networking lies in finding harmony between what you say and where you stand.
Time to get networking and let your people skills shine!
Your co-pilot (who will be strategically waiting for you),
P.S.
What is you biggest networking challenge?
I’d love to hear from you! And you have any favorite networking tips to share, I’m all ears.
We’re in this together!