Networking - Not so scary
One of the projects we’ve been working has led me to attending various events in the startup communities in cities across Canada. These kinds of events all have one major element in common. Conversation.
These opportunities have really begun to give me a chance to hone my networking skills.
As someone who’s just starting out, I’ve discovered that there are a few things that seem to work for me. Here’s a list of “tactics” when it comes to networking:
- Stay in touch with the individuals that you look up to or who you respect but can’t really help you out right now. You never know
- Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with people you don’t know, regardless of where you are
- When you ask someone a question. Stay silent until you get an answer. This is what it means to be a good listener
- Be sincere and interested when conversing with people
- Always keep updated business cards on you
- If you’re a bad public speaker, take classes to become a better presenter and improving body language
- Join associations and other groups in your industry that you could network at
- Follow up with anyone and on anything that comes your way, regardless of how insignificant you may think it is
Another important point to keep in mind that the type of people you network with may not always be a business professional. It’s always a great idea to have a diverse network of people from different walks of life.
Trust me, it’s not so bad. It will only benefit you now to get out and try striking up a conversation with a stranger. A personal word of advice; be confident, and if you’re not confident then fake it till you make it.
You never know what it might merit. I urge you all to get out there and get talking.
Comments
Leave a Reply