Okay you read my article, “NETWORKING – Three Concepts To Know” and now you are ready to get moving and implement.
People ask me all of the time – what is the secret to networking?
Well, drum roll please, here it is – Go Do It!
You didn’t learn how to ride a bicycle sitting on the couch did you?
The first time you learned to swim did you jump or get thrown into the pool or read a book? (Warning – do not throw someone into the pool who does not know how to swim! Especially if they are holding a book titled – “How To Swim Without Getting Wet”)
The first time you went skiing did you learn how from watching video after video or by putting on skis getting out on the slopes?
You might feel nervous.
You might feel you are not ready.
You will overcome all of these doubts and fears.
Networking in person is an essential part of any person’s life!
Yes that is correct! It is not only for business people or business owners. It is an essential part of your life!
“But Mitch, I don’t have anything to sell, I am looking for a job.”
Perfect! The whole point of networking is to create relationships – not to sell!
Who knows maybe you will meet someone, who knows someone else who may be looking to hire a person who has your exact skills? The only way this type of connection happens is from real live in person networking.
Here are three tips for your use in Networking that you must begin to utilize today:
- The first tip for your networking success for you to use now is to locate groups, functions or events where the people you want to meet attend. There is no need to plunk down a fistful of dollars right away. Most groups will permit a few visits to their meetings for a reasonable fee so you may visit. You are checking out their group. Remember they are checking you out as well. Almost all events are either free or there is a small fee to attend. You want to attend events where people are moving around the room and networking actively.
- The second tip for your networking success for you to use now is to arrive early to the event or the gathering. Do your best to seek out the host of the event and introduce yourself. See if they will offer to introduce you to a few of the key people who will be attending. Make certain you clearly express to the host the type of people who you are interested in meeting and why. Describe what value you bring to the group.
- The third tip for your networking success for you to use now is to always follow up. The real conversations between two people happen in the one on one meetings after the initial meeting at a networking event. You have no idea how many people never follow up! This one tip is a game changer for you. If you want to stand out in building your network – follow up!
In summary here are your three tips for your networking success for you to use now:
First: FIND THE GROUPS, EVENTS, FUNCTIONS TO ATTEND
Second: ARRIVE EARLY – MEET THE HOST
Third: ALWAYS FOLLOW UP
Begin today to put these tips into action for you and your networking will be successful!
Mitch Tublin runs a boutique consulting firm with a main focus on Leadership Development, Executive Coaching and Business Advisory. Based in Stamford, CT. they have clients all over the world.
