Networking is one of the most important tools that help professionals climb the success ladder in the corporate world. It’s not just clicking the ‘follow’ button on social media, but also how well you connect with strangers. Many of us get nervous while connecting with people in the same or different fields. However, you need to realize that networking could possibly boost a good career growth. Meeting individuals from different fields could help you explore new career opportunities.
Here’s how you can improve your networking skills:
1. Research online: Keep yourself updated on different events held throughout the year. Research thoroughly about the venue, time and purpose of that respective event or conference. You can even contact the organizers to get a brief of the event and plan out on how to connect with individuals from diverse fields.
2. Always be prepared: You may meet people at any given point in time. You need to be prepared to present yourself as a confident individual at social events, exhibitions, business conference etc. Be confident enough to introduce yourself, your specialization and your company. Remember to share the contact details and exchange business cards. You would be surprised to figure out if the opposite person is from the same industry and may turn out to be your next client.
3. Be a good listener: Make sure you don’t boast about what you do. Instead, allow the opposite person to talk. Practice listening. Follow a certain set of manners while approaching professionals. Note down specific details from the conversations on a small diary or business card to bring it up in future.
4. Try finding solutions: If someone shares his or her difficulties or challenges with you, make sure you figure out some sensible solutions. This helps in building strong professional and personal relationships as well. Keep aside your ego. Never be overconfident about your position. Be humble enough to share information about your talents and area of interests.
5. Social media can help: Social networking sites like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter allow you to connect with professionals all over the world. It helps people remember where they met you. Make sure you exchange information about your work interests via mail. Be open to feedback and learning new things in the course of the interaction.
