Top Business Networking Tips

Whether you are self-employed or working for a company, networking is one of the critical skills that you need in the work environment. Your network can help you to quickly respond to work changes (e.g. downsizing, client loss) by putting you in touch with new contacts and opportunities. Here are 10 networking tips to keep in mind.

1. Build relationships, not the record for handing out the most business cards: Networking is about getting to know someone and building relationships. It is the conversation that helps you to understand the other person, their interests, and challenges. The business card only has value once you have developed rapport, established common interests, or determined how you can help each other.

2. Focus on the other person: Treat the person you are talking to like they are the most important person in the room. Intelligent networkers know that networking is about showing an interest in others, rather than others showing an interest in you.

3. Give: Giving is the basic premise of networking because, as they say, “What goes around comes around” and people will usually want to help you in return. Help others in whatever way that you can with a valuable contact, a key networking event, or a worthwhile association. Often information that we take for granted can be valuable to someone else.

4. Make an effort to get out and network: A good rule of thumb is to get out to about 4 events per month which is only 1 per week. This will help you to keep your commitment to networking. Not sure where to go? Start with your local chamber of commerce.

5. Look, listen, and learn: Take the time to learn from others whom you consider good networkers. Notice what makes them good and see if you can easily adopt a few techniques.

6. Check in regularly with your network: Keep in touch with your network to see what they are up to and how you can help them. You never want to turn to your network when you really need them, especially when you have not bothered staying in touch. Call to say hello, send an interesting article, or invite them to a networking event.

7. Introductions make the network go round: Freely introduce individuals within your network who might benefit from meeting each other. A good network is an active one.

8. Do not assume or judge: You never know who you are talking to, what they do, or who they know. Never assume, give everyone a chance, and treat them equally.

Employ these skills correctly, and your network will grow and bring new opportunities.