Single Most Powerful Networking Tip: How Can I Help You?

Networking is an art and some people just seem to be naturally good at it. However, you should remember that everyone networks on a regular basis, from making friends to getting to know colleagues. The problem is with networking events, when people don’t know how to network and form connections seamlessly. This is important to overcome because the importance of networking is only growing each day. So with so many tips on how to handle yourself in a networking event, how do you get the essence of it all? Simply answer the question how you can help the other person.

Everyone is at the networking event to form relationships and expand their professional circle. A networking event is not a career fair, so don’t go about handing resumes. Instead, talk to people, get to know their needs and think about how you can provide them with added value. The value that you provide can be of any form. Perhaps you have a friend who works in an area that the manager you are talking to is looking to expand. You can offer to set up a meeting. Or you can offer a small tip about the news article you were reading that is relevant to the topic at hand.

Being a good listener is a must. You should be able to talk to people and listen to them and understand their needs. You don’t have to ask them directly, but through clever questions and conversations, you can understand this. Then offer your services. You should always link back to your own area of expertise and how it is relevant to them.

Many people go to networking events and forget why they are there. You are at a networking event to network, not to find a job. A number of young graduates are confused about what a networking event is in the first place. People high up in the value chain who attend such networking events get resumes and job pitches by the dozen. You shouldn’t be one of them that they will “consider for future reference”. Instead, show them what you can bring today. Help them understand how you can provide a solution.

It is also important to be genuine, warm and open in a networking event. Remember that it is a room full of strangers, after all, and people naturally would flock to the friendlier face. If you can talk to a lot of people about yourself, your chances of success will naturally increase. Get to know the other person and form a connection.

Finally, you should remember that a networking event is a beginning, not an end, which means you should follow up on your leads and keep in touch with your contacts. Also, chances are that you might meet the same people again in another networking event, so try to make a note of what people said during the event and leverage this information when you write to them. If you form a good rapport, meet with your connections over a cup of coffee occasionally just to follow up on things. You will find your networking was more fruitful than you anticipated.