Networking can open doors of opportunity... including the chance of finding new friends and reaching out to people with your skills and strengths. Here are the etiquette guidelines

NETWORKING CAN OPEN DOORS  OF OPPORTUNITY 

Networking is an essential business skill that can be learned. The more you network, the easier it gets. Your confidence will grow and after time, the fear doesn't stop you.Meeting and greeting people at business events for many is a frightening concept. How do you let people know what you do and what you might offer them if you don’t get out and promote yourself? 

Traditional networking guides and tips make networking pretty transactional, but networking is more effective when you’re meeting and getting to know people before you need help with something or want to sell your products and services.

10 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE NETWORKING

  

1.    Develop a list of potential  contacts.These are people you could approach about events or job prospects.

2.    Identify  professional and social event  that will be interseting to attend on a regular basis. Volunteer to help in organizing these events  if possible!

3.    Dress appropriately for these events. First impressions count, so ensure that you wear clothing that reflects a professional image.

4.     Learn how to start a conversation. This is called small talk. Begin with questions such as, “what brings you to this event?”

5.    Have a “30-second resume” ready. This is a verbal summary of your career interests, knowledge areas, skills, and type of industry that interests  you....don't bore people with a long biography

6.    Avoid dominating the conversation (i.e having an “it’s all about me!” mentality).

7.    Master the art of asking open-ended questions. This type of question lets you learn about the other person. Be careful to avoid questions that are too personal  (e.g., “Are you single?” or “Do you have children?”)

8.    Prepare a business card and be ready to hand it out. Keep cards that you receive. Be careful to avoid being pushy when offering or requesting cards.

 Remember that networking at events means continually moving around and not monopolizing one person’s time all evening.

9.    Send a follow-up email right after the event when memories are fresh... try to recall a humourous or warm  encounter in the message but wait for a day before  you follow up on a opportunity you discussed