We’re not all like a duck to water when it comes to meeting new people for the first time, some of us may find the initial networking process awkward when you first attend and may require some advice – not knowing others prior to a networking event can put some people off – not to mention getting up in front of people and feeling a tad embarrassed. But what if you feel like this and want to get over the hurdle, what do you need to do or be aware of?
You’re probably not going to avoid awkward networking situations entirely, no matter how hard you try – at some point, you will get cornered by the one person in the room who just can’t resist making a sales pitch. But ultimately, they’re the ones who will generate the contacts or business they are looking for – confidence is key.
To ensure that you aren’t the one making others cringe and creating the confidence to shine, here is some helpful advice to get you on the path of networking success.
Don’t Be Intimidated or Subtle
The first point is very apt for the subject we are focusing on within this blog. Even the most successful businessman or woman are intimidated – it’s human nature. You can learn a lot from others in more ways than one, equally there is some things others can learn from you too – don’t be afraid to ask questions, it will go a long way to understanding a potential client.
When a lot of people network, they’re afraid to step up and accomplish what they want to do or say. As somebody who’s sometimes on the other side of that, it’s annoying. If you’re clear and to the point, potential clients will be interested. If you’re trying to be subtle, it hurts one’s ability to provide whatever benefit they’re looking to achieve in the networking environment.
Curate Your Connections
Being interrupted – it’s not fun is it? Actively and patiently listening communicates that you respect the other person and are giving them the gift of your attention and presence. People can tell, and they appreciate it. Make sure you spend good quality time with your potential connections, listening to someone rather than speaking over them goes a long way to building that relationship. A good way to start the process is being ready with your business cards to hand, that way they won’t forget you or your service. However, this doesn’t mean you should dish out your business cards like they’re going out of fashion, give them to connections that you can see a future and prosperous working relationship with.
The Follow Up
After all that hard work in trying to create the connection and getting on well, the worst thing you can then do is not follow up with a phone call or email to keep the process on-going. The secret in business is to maintain that connection throughout – making sure they’re happy and if there is anything you can do for them. Add their contact information to your address book or add them on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter – these are good ways of keeping that connection alive.
Ultimately, if you’re there to be seen and have the attitude of meeting and creating those new connections, you will succeed at our meetings – you’re there for the same reason everyone else is, to be successful via another avenue – so give it a try and see the benefits coming in tenfold.
If you’re a long term networker attendee, what advice would you give to those who are looking to get involved with Nexus Networking Group? We would love to hear your comments!
If you would like to get in contact regarding all of our Nexus Networking Group services or require advice on anything business related, please call 07776 157 503 or alternatively you can email us via gavin@hawkhurstai.com.
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