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When people list the most valuable benefit of belonging to a professional association, "networking" is always near the top of the list. However, researchers say that over half of all people report feeling shy or uncomfortable in business and social settings. The good news is that networking know-how can be learned, just as you learn to use a computer or bake a soufflé. Here are some networking tips from trainers/speakers Anne Baber and Lynne Waymon, authors of Make Your Contacts Count:
- Arrive early at meetings or other events. That's when the movers and shakers show up. Introduce yourself to the chapter officers and show appreciation for their leadership. Also, introduce yourself to the speaker and let her/him know why you're interested in the program topic.
- Learn people's names and make your own memorable. It is your job to help people remember your name. When introducing yourself, say your first name twice and give a trick or tip for remembering your name. Examples: "Hi, I'm Lynne, Lynne Waymon. That's Waaaaayyyy down at the end of the alphabet." Or, "Hi, I'm Anne, Anne Baber. That's Anne with an "e" and Babe with an "r".
- Think through your agenda. What do you want to find? What resources, ideas, information, and referrals do you have to give away, conversationally speaking?
- Make at least one new acquaintance at every event. Make a pact with your friends and colleagues that you're there to meet new people and aren't going to talk or sit together.
- Listen generously. When your conversational partner mentions an interest, enthusiasm, or challenge, listen generously by suggesting a resource, book, or website that will interest her, or by introducing her to someone you know who shares that interest or concern.
- Skip the small talk – about the weather and the ball scores. Instead, ask good questions such as, "What have you been working on lately?" When somebody says, "What's new?" tell them a short story about a recent career success story, saving the day, serving the customer, or solving the problem. Share your excitement in and pleasure at what you do.
- Give yourself a job. Ask the chapter officers or committee leaders what needs to be done. Let them know your areas of expertise. Offer to help in ways that show your character and competence.
- Ask for advice. When you are talking to someone about a specific topic or need, ask, "Who else do you think I should talk to about this?" Then ask your contact to introduce you.
- Extend the meeting beyond the meeting. For example, you met Sally and would like to know her better. Say: "How about getting together for coffee next week? I'd like to hear more about how you're organizing that training program you mentioned." Share rides to meetings; call and make plans to sit together at an event; or invite a networking contact to be your exercise buddy.
- Every Friday afternoon find three people to thank . Come up with creative ways to appreciate the people who have helped you – such as sending a handwritten note, a funny card, tickets to a local event, or a contribution to their favorite charity.
Remember - networking is about teaching and giving. Even if you have said, "I hate networking!" or "I'm not good at this!" you can learn the rules and tools to make your contacts count.
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