Quick Tips For Effective Networking [Face to face]

Networking is regularly considered one of the parts of business that is least enjoyed. Most people worry that they are coming off as either too pushy or too aloof, as well as struggling to make meaningful connections with people who are in similar industries.

While many people now use networking tools such as LinkedIn, studies have shown that face to face networking is still considered the best and most effective. Building a successful network of colleagues, business associates, or acquaintances doesn’t have to be as difficult as many make it out to be. The following 10 tips for face to face meetings can help you network more effectively.

1. Do your research. If you’re preparing to attend a workshop, conference, or other event, do research, ahead of time, as to who will be attending. This can help you target other professionals with whom you want to make connections.
2. Quality, not quantity. Successful networking isn’t measured by how many business cards you can hand out in an hour. Instead, focus on making meaningful connections with people with whom there is a potential for mutual benefit.
3. Don’t put business first. Although this may seem counter-intuitive, don’t immediately push your agenda when meeting someone new. Instead, get to know them as a person; people are more willing to do business with someone they feel they connected with or can relate to.
4. Listen more than you talk. The more you talk about yourself or your accomplishments, the more arrogant you seem. Instead, ask questions, listen actively and attentively, and respond appropriately to create a meaningful conversation.
5. Share your passion. Not all networking conversations have to be business related. It’s easier to make a connection when talking about what you are passionate about. Discussing your hobbies and interests outside of work is a great way to find some common ground.
6. Avoid excessive compliments. When meeting someone whose work you admire, avoid excessive compliments. Often, the only response to a compliment is “thank you,” which doesn’t add much to the development of a conversation. If you look up to the person you’re talking to, ask specific questions to help create a thoughtful discussion.
7. Be upbeat. Having a positive attitude is an important part of making a good impression. Complaining about your business or industry can often create a negative impression. However, it is important to note that being upbeat to the point of acting fake or cheesy can be just as much of a turnoff as being pessimistic.
8. Ask to meet for drinks, not dinner. After meeting someone new, it is common to suggest continuing the conversation over a meal such as breakfast or dinner. However, many people cannot commit to the hour or more that a meal would take. Instead, suggest meeting for coffee or drinks; this shorter time commitment may be more doable for those with busy schedules.
9. Get creative with business cards. Business cards no longer have to just include cursory contact information. Twitter handles, blogs, or LinkedIn URL’s are all options to further customize your business cards. Likewise, a including a photo may help people better remember you.
10. Follow up. Networking doesn’t end after you exchange business cards. After meeting someone, send a quick email; it can be as simple as “It was nice meeting you” or include something relevant to your conversation such as “Here’s the article I was telling you about.” Doing this can help keep you connected while opening up further discussion or dialogue.