Networking can be difficult, especially if you are a shy person. Most people don’t realise they already network in their day-to-day life. Meeting people and making friends is a form of networking. Realising that can make networking a little bit easier, but we do have other tips for you to consider when it comes to Networking.
Work On Your Handshake
In a world that has experienced a Covid-19 Pandemic, this may seem like an odd tip, but you can tell a lot about a person when it comes to their handshake. When people are nervous, they ten to either have too firm a handshake or too loose. The middle ground is what will tell the person that you are meeting that you a confident, but not overconfident. Practising your handshake can mean giving a potential client the impression that you not only know what you are talking about, but are confident enough to try and share it. (source).
Research Who Will Be At The Event
If possible find out who will be at the event and do a little bit of digging. Showing up and not knowing who is there can mean that you lose valuable contacts talking to the wrong people. It also gives the impression that you are unprepared. Being seen as unprepared can be construed as being seen as uncaring. They may be concerned about doing business with you as you seem as if you just don’t care about the opportunity given. It also can mean that you are seen as someone who would not fully commit to your product an thus not willing to do the work needed to make your business a success. (source).
Be Yourself
The other person is looking to potentially build a relationship with you, not a persona you think will be pleasing. Most of the time, it is obvious that the person opposite is not being themselves. It also gives the impression that you have something to hide. Share what you do, do not try and sell it. If they are interested, they will want to know more and potentially use your services somewhere down the line. Remember to smile, it can help people remember you and your company as well as making it easier for them to connect with you. You need to show a real interest in the people you are with, let them talk before you overwhelm them with things about you and your business. You need the conversation to seem natural if you re going to make an impression. (source).
These are only a few tips to make networking easier. Building and maintaining connections can help your career and business in the long run. You can be given valuable tips on how to progress your career or grow your business. It can mean the difference between success or failure. Nexus Networking can help you build those valuable connections that can give you the boost that you need when you need it most. To find out more, visit our website on https://www.nexusnetworking.co.uk/, email us on info@nexusnetworking.co.uk or give us a call on 01206 656 160.