Proven Strategies for Networking Success

Would you like to learn some proven strategies for networking success?

Many people can feel frustrated or even intimidated about networking with others, especially in business environments. So, they avoid going to networking events. Or they attend them, but only talk with people they already know.

Over the 11 years I’ve been in business full-time, I’ve learned a lot about networking with other business owners. No matter what kind of networking you do, become known as a resource to others. Or another way to say it – be the connector in the room.

Follow up after the event via a LinkedIn connection invite, an email, or other means. Ask people how they would like you to communicate with them.

Now, let’s explore the “what” and “how” of networking. These tips apply to in-person networking.

The “What” of Networking

• When and Where – Select networking events and groups that meet when you have the most energy. Also, when possible, find ones that are relatively close to where you live or work.
• Meeting/Event Format and Purpose – Find networking groups and events that align with your or your company’s purpose. Research the size of the group, the number of attendees at an event, and the structure of the group/event. Will people be introducing themselves to the whole group? Or will it be more of a mixer where you go around introducing yourself?
• Who Attends – What chances will you have to meet potential clients or referral partners at the group or event? What types of people do you like to network with?

 

The “How” of Networking – these tips come from the book “The Fine Art of Small Talk” by Debra Fine.

• Starting a Networking Conversation – Approach the other person in a friendly manner using open body language. Lean slightly toward them as you shake their hand firmly and say your name. Be sure to say their name aloud to help you remember it.

• Experiencing the Conversation – Start with small talk, such as referencing the shared situation. Ask open-ended questions that start with “how” or “what.” Be sure to show a genuine interest in your conversational partner and use their name during the conversation.

• Exiting the Conversation – State your need to leave the conversation to do something else and follow through. Show sincere appreciation for the time together. End with a smile and a handshake – the same way you started the conversation. Ask if there’s anyone at the event they’d like to meet. Then, look for a person you know who fits that description and introduce them to your conversational partner, if possible.

 

Pro Tips from Chris Irving, Co-Founder of Genius Networking

Chris Irving and Dean Gartelos created Genius Networking in December 2023, and their first in-person networking event was in January 2024.

This monthly event has steadily grown in attendance, with the most recent happy hour attracting over 70 people. Here’s how Dean and Chris describe the group on their Meetup site: “Our community is a bit different from your typical networking scene. We’re all about making real, genuine connections, bringing leaders together, and most importantly… having a great time doing it! So, why not hop in and meet some fantastic people while enjoying every moment? Can’t wait to see you at our next event.”

Learn more about Genius Networking at this link.

Here are just a few of the networking tips that Chris shared in a presentation he gave in August:

• Come prepared to answer questions like: What brings you here tonight? What kind of work do you do? Where are you from? What are your hobbies or interests?
• Be sure to listen more than you talk, and really focus on the other person as they are speaking.
• When leaving the conversation, say something like: “This has been a very interesting conversation that I’d really like to continue on a Zoom call or over coffee. Do you have a business card?”
• Whenever you see group of people laughing and enjoying themselves at a networking event, that’s the kind of group to invite yourself into the conversation.
• Set a goal for yourself – such as I’m going to hand out at least 10 business cards, or I’m going to get contact info from at least five people.
• Make notes on the business cards about your conversations with the people you meet. And, as mentioned before, follow up with an email or LinkedIn invite within a couple of days.

The photo with this blog post depicts business owners Jessica Rickert and me chatting at a networking event.

About Joyce

Joyce Feustel helps people, especially those age 55 and up, to become more effective using social media, especially LinkedIn and Facebook. She works with business owners, business development professionals, business consultants, job seekers, and more – ranging from entrepreneurs to people in large corporations. Find her at www.boomerssocialmediatutor.com.