Top Business Networking Tips

Networking is one of the critical skills you need to flourish as an administrative professional in any business environment. 

Here are 10 evergeen networking tips to keep in mind.

Build relationships, not 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, email address, or LinkedIn message only has value once you have developed rapport, established common interests, or determined how you can help each other.

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.

Be a giver, not a taker

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.

Make an effort to get out and network

A good rule of thumb is to get out to several networking events per year. This will help you to keep your commitment to networking. Not sure where to go? Start with the Administrative Professionals Conference (APC).

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. Active listening is an important skill to master.

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 only 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.

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.

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 not only grow and also bring new opportunities to help you advance your administrative career.