There are dozens of opportunities to meet new people and grow your
professional network every day. Still, most people rely on formal networking events to pull out their
business cards and start conversations. Instead, take advantage of less obvious
opportunities.
A connection can happen in the most unlikely places including while
you’re in line for your morning coffee, on an airplane going to your next
business meeting, during a break at a seminar, or at a happy hour event.
The first rule of networking is visibility. When I started my
business 16 years ago, I joined professional organizations, associations and
other groups. But that wasn’t enough. I knew that I had to get involved to get
recognized. In other words, you must see and be seen in order for others
to know who you are.
Volunteer
to serve on the board of a local nonprofit or attend charity fundraising
events. Volunteer to give a presentation or guest lecture to hone your public
speaking skills. Don’t forget that you are your own best business card.
As
you go about your day, keep your eyes and ears open for conversation starters.
Look for opportunities to be of service. If a stranger mentions that he is
looking for a good restaurant, chime in and introduce yourself and suggest some
of your favorite places to eat. Search for things you have in common,
especially shared experiences, to start genuinely interesting conversations.
It
may seem awkward at first, but the more you practice, the more connections
you’ll make. Networks grow exponentially. For every new connection you make,
you inherit those secondary connections. After all, it’s much easier to ask for
an introduction than it is to cold call someone or introduce yourself out of
the blue.
Instead
of waiting for an occasion to network, use these tips to start a conversation
with a stranger.
Give a firm handshake. First
impressions are powerful and a good handshake conveys confidence. Always stand
when you shake someone’s hand because it shows respect for yourself and the
other person. As you offer your hand, make eye contact, smile, say your first
and last name, and something about yourself.
Find a connector. If
you’re new at an event, ask someone in charge or someone who knows a lot of
people to introduce you to others in their network. An introduction from an
insider can be more effective than if you introduce yourself to a group of
strangers.
Discover a person’s hobbies and interests. You
could say something like, “What activities do you like to do in your spare
time?” No one likes to talk about work all night, so your new acquaintance will
appreciate your genuine interest. It’s always nice when someone takes the time
to get to know who you are, not just what you do.
Give a sincere compliment. This
can be a great way to initiate small talk. Everyone loves a compliment. When
someone has won an award or done something noteworthy at work, compliment her
on her business accomplishments. Accessories are safe conversation starters.
Mention you like a person’s laptop case, pin, tie or handbag.
Know a little about a lot of things. Stay
up-to-date on current affairs. If you are interested and interesting, people
will be drawn to you. When you travel on business, grab a local paper as soon
as you arrive at the airport or hotel. Familiarize yourself with local news and
you’ll always have something to talk about. Stay away from taboo topics
including sex, money, off-color jokes and politics.
Keep in touch. After
you meet new connections, be sure to follow-up. Always exchange business cards
so you can connect on LinkedIn afterwards. Send an email or a handwritten note
to let the person know you enjoyed meeting him. If you come across a business
opportunity or a news article that you think your new acquaintance might be
interested in, let him know. When you stay in touch, relationships will
naturally grow.
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