What to know before you network
Like it or loath it, networking is part of every professional career. If you’re someone who loves the thrill of meeting new people and networking your way to the highest heights then use these steps as a top-up. If you’re on the other side and the thought of networking makes you feel sick, then pick two or three of the below steps and put them into practice next time you’re out meeting new people. Once you’re comfortable, move onto the next one! We hope you go out there and have some fun!
Why do you want to connect with people?
There is nothing worse than going into a situation and not understanding what YOU want to get out of it.
As in life, if you don’t know what success looks like then how you do you know you’ve been successful? If you don’t know what you want to measure, how will you know what to focus on?
Before you head into a networking event, make sure you know exactly what you want to achieve from the event (contacts, meeting new people, being invited to speak at an event, etc). Once you know this, you’ll be able to set yourself up for success!
What value do you have offer inline with what you want to achieve?
If you are going to be successful (see above) you have to ensure that people see value in you, what you do and what you offer.
Make sure that you know your ‘value proposition’ in two or three lines, and ensure you do this in relation to what you have to offer them. NOT what you have to offer full stop.
Also, don’t get mixed up between begin liked and begin wanted. People might not always like you, but if they see value in you then you’re one step ahead. So try to win people over with your skill set and offering, and let the personality be a bonus.
Your schedule and flexibility
Sounds simple, but many people forget this. Ensure you have some key days so that when you meet the white whale you can accept invitations on the spot without delay.
It also allows you to negotiate offers without the awkward follow up email that can often result in missed opportunities.
Opening lines what aren’t awkward (do you come here often)
Hi, how are you…No. Just no.
A strong Hand shake and an opening that not only makes you memorable, but also sets you apart from the sea of networkers. This is all you need to get on the front foot.
Current events – news, sport, lifestyle, general
Naivety is never cute. Nor is a narrow focus. No matter what your interests are, ensure that you’re up-to-date on current events in news, sport, lifestyle and general front page happenings.
When it comes to ‘stereotypical gender interest’ – smash them! Females know about football and men know about ‘lifestyle’ stories.
Don’t only keep this in mind when brushing up on your knowledge, also practice this then you’re actually asking the questions.
For example, both A and E will happily take you on when it comes to AFL and their opposite loves of Carton and Collingwood. So assuming your knowledge is gender specific is something that should be avoided at all costs.
Events and topics of interest to the group your talking with
Linked to #5 is knowledge of the industry you’re networking in. Know the landscape, know the current news reports and know the whispers. This way, if the above fails, you have a fall back that can help you to achieve point #1.
Don’t forget your own value
You’re networking to achieve something and everyone understands this. Make sure that you’re valuing yourself and you’re time.
Say yes to every connection but don’t say yes to every invitation. Knowing your value will ensure that you’re achieving your own measurement of success, while still valuing who you are.
Don't Ruin Your Dress 