How Can I Be Good at Networking?
How can I be good at Networking?

How Can I Be Good at Networking?

Networking. It's something that everyone does, but how would you do it well?

Networking is a continuous process that involves patience, focus, planning, and positivity. If you integrate the skill of networking into your job hunt, you will be able to obtain opportunities and form long-lasting partnerships. 

In both professional and personal lives, networking abilities are vital. Building a professional network makes it easy to connect with people who can assist you in your job hunt and offer advice on how to enhance your career. Learning the set of skills required to form and improve long-term relationships might assist you in developing and improving them.

With these simple effective networking strategies, you can showcase your value to potential clients and employers.

  • Set networking objectives for yourself: Setting goals is essential to assure that you are making the most use of your time and resources in order to build a strong network. Knowing what you want to achieve by communicating with industry experts is the first step towards setting your objective. You might be ready to broaden your network to get better job prospects or get career guidance.
  • Boost your public speaking and communication abilities: Improve your networking skills by practicing good communication and public speaking. When conversing with someone, try to maintain eye contact and nod your head when listening to someone else. The more you practice public speaking, the more you'll be able to establish relationships and connections with others.
  • Loosen up and let go of your stress: It's likely that how you relax differs from how others calm. Either you meditate, breathe deeply, have a drink or two before an event, be more prepped, or invite anyone with you to connect with, the number-one method for remaining calm and having fun networking is to try to get rid of the stress you may be feeling. Tell yourself you're there to unwind, not to do stuff.
  • Start by networking with people you already know: If you've already made a connection by chance (i.e., you did not attempt to network), try contacting that individual and striking up a conversation. To practice having conversations with someone you don't know quite well, talk with folks in your office whom you haven't interacted with much previously. Networking does not always imply seeking out new acquaintances. Prioritize the connections you already have and try to invest in them first.
  • Participate in networking events: Attending networking events to meet professionals from various sectors is an excellent method to improve this skill set. To express genuine interest, ask appropriate questions, and pay attention to what others have to say before responding to their queries. Focus on developing meaningful relationships while attending such events.
  • Prior to networking, you should study: This makes you feel more at ease since you'll know a little something about the individuals you're attempting to connect with, and you'll be more prepared for anything that comes your way. Of course, you never know who will show up at a networking event, but even just making notes on the event, the anticipated attendees, and what you hope to gain from the event (or the meeting) will put you at ease.
  • Make a list of useful questions to ask ahead of time: Similar to the last point, having questions to ask will make you feel more prepared and at ease. If you ever find yourself in an uncomfortable pause or forget how to act normal because you're nervous, simply ask a question you've prepared ahead of time. It will aid in the continuation of the conversation, with no one being the wiser.
  • LinkedIn is your best ally: Maintain an up-to-date LinkedIn profile. After you've met someone, networking on LinkedIn is a great method to keep conversations and friendships going. It allows you to display your professional information while also providing you and your contact with a simple means of communicating.
  • Keep in mind that quality trumps quantity: It's far more important to network with the right individuals than it is to connect to a lot of people at an event. You should prioritize the quality of your connections above the quantity, and you'll notice that you become a stronger networker as a result of your ability to focus on what counts.
  • Request honest feedback: You can enhance your communication approach by receiving constructive and honest feedback. In order to improve your communicative skills, talk to your friends about how you connect with them. This could have a big impact on your networking abilities.

 


Sakshi S.

Talent Acquisition Specialist at Infosys BPM

2y

#networkingabilities #networkingskills #networkingstrategies #networkingtips

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