OBM: Networking Skills
On October 30 I ran another October Business Month workshops.This one was on “Becoming a More Confident Networker". The workshop focused on how to make a good first impression, how to find value in networking and how to feel less 'weird' talking about yourself. I’ve decided to share some of the key points with you.Feel free to get in contact if you ever want help with networking workshops and skills development.
My Top 5 Take Home Messages on Networking
Be present: Even if you are nervous you need to respect the other human being you're talking to. Put your phone away, don't look around for other conversations and give that person your attention. The best conversations come from being open to building a relationship, sharing and being actively involved in the conversation. Be present and find a way to enjoy what you are doing.
Be memorable: You can't say everything in a networking event. But you can leave an impression and have something to leverage off when you follow up. There's many ways to be memorable, but I think the most effective is to find common ground, connect over something with the person you're talking to and then use that at the beginning of your follow up.
Ask questions: Be a good cooperative communicator and help the other person share their information by asking engaging questions. Questions show deep interest and can activate your natural curiosity making the process much easier.
Give value for free: Help people out. You can be remembered and appreciated by using networking as an opportunity to help people with information, contacts and connections. Plus if you're remembered as a good human you've nailed that first impression!
Be kind to yourself: You don't have to enjoy networking. Small talk can feel absolutely weird. But be kind to yourself. The networking experience does not define you, you don't have to captivate large audiences with your witty stories - you need to be yourself, be authentic and connect to other breathing humans. Go easy on yourself - everyone has a story and info worth sharing, have faith in yours.
I hope everyone had an excellent #OBM2018.