How to Network

By Kamea Zelisko

If you’re in business you’ve no doubt had to undertake the task of networking.
To many people (myself included), networking can be a scary task – the idea of having to strike up a conversation with a complete stranger feels almost unnatural, and yes, admittedly awkward, but the results of networking can be very rewarding both personally and professionally if it’s done right.

Networking is about more than just handing out as many cards as possible, it’s about building relationships with people, and that takes time. In fact, it has been said that it takes 7 contacts with someone to build a relationship where they know, like and trust you enough to do business with you.

Below are some quick tips to help ease you into networking:

Start with your current network: One of the best ways to start networking is to start with people you already know. Family members, friends and past and current coworkers can all become the beginnings of your network. Don’t be afraid to tell them what your business is about and even ask them if they know anyone who may be interested in your services. After all if you don’t ask, you’ll never know, right?

Look online: The Internet is a great place to find networking events in and around your area. Check out government-funded networking events, visit sites like LinkedIn and meetup.com or do a Google search for networking clubs and upcoming events in your area, and you’ll soon find a plethora of networking events to attend.

Sell yourself, not your business: When you meet someone, don’t immediately push your services on to him or her in a quick and dirty manner. Be interested in the other person, listen and care about what they say and try to make a connection. Remember, business is all about relationships.

Look, listen and learn: When you meet other people during your networking events, notice what makes them good networkers and try to adopt some of their techniques.

Check in regularly with your network: This is an important and often overlooked step in networking. Be sure to keep in touch with your network to see what they are up to and how you can help them. Give them a call or email, send them an interesting article, invite them to an event you think they may be interested in.

Good luck with your networking efforts!