Purpose

When you network always have a purpose. Having a purpose will make it easier for you to strategise. Time is usually limited when networking with others; you do not always have the luxury of having a clear picture. Being realistic about your goals will help you save time and maximise on opportunities.

Reason

You always want to leave a good impression on the people that you are networking with. Be strategic and come up with talking points that would interest the people that your networking with. Presentation is key so always be dressed to impress; arrive at any networking event or meeting with confidence. People can easily sense when you have confidence in your own ability; also perfect your introduction. Lastly speak passionately about what you do for a living.

Conversations

When meeting new people it takes time to start an effective conversation. Try to avoid discussions that are question to answer based. Try a different strategy like building a story around a question that your asked. This strategy can help create a more meaningful conversation.

Business Cards

Treat your business card as if it was a $10 note. Your card can work for you after any meeting or event by ensuring that you make genuine connections. Make sure that the connections that you made are linked to your goals. Ensuring that you have enough cards for an event or meetings is key for creating a good impression.

Preparation

Always be prepared for any event or meeting. I like to call this the P5 formula: Proper, Preparation, Prevents, Poor, Performance. Being prepared gives you an advantage in any meeting or event because of the benefit of achieving your goals and objectives. Strategise by knowing the people that you would like to meet and also the conversation starters.

Listening Skills

Your smartphone should always be on silent mode during a meeting or event. Having your phone on silent mode gives an impression of professionalism because you are trying to eliminate distractions. Conversations do not always have to be based on business; having a topic that most people can relate to can help ease discussions. Don’t approach any meeting or event with a “please the crowd mentality”. Note that listening intently to what other people are saying is a sign of respect that will make you stand out in a crowd.

Follow Up

Avoid conversation killers like gossip or personal issues. Make sure that your present in every conversation. Ask follow up questions and avoid drifting when people are responding. Also avoid dominating the conversation with self based stories.

Once you have made a genuine connection with someone in an event or meeting reach out to them. Reach out to them using a professional platform like LinkedIn, personalised text or via email. Try to keep in mind a conversation that you discussed previously or something that you liked about the person. The main purpose of networking is to meet people that you can have mutual relationships with that provide advantages.

Body Language

Be aware of body language. People will take notice of how you enter and exit a venue. Always wear comfortable shoes and clothing. There’s a saying that you have probably heard before “your attitude in life determines your altitude in life”. Greet people generously and also extend your hand to greet people. Don’t shy away in the corner because this gives the impression that you don’t want to talk or engage with people. You can introduce yourself to an individual or small group of people by introducing yourself with a prepared conversation starter.

Thanks for taking time to read my blog.

— James Njoroge.