The Secrets of Successful Networking
Our resident life coach, Carole Ann Rice, tackles the secrets to how to network successfully in a room full of strangers… something many of us can’t bear the thought of!
-
Network your way to success
Mention networking to the modern working woman and the idea is about as appealing as a de-tox diet or Gordon Brown in his Y-fronts. Frankly it’s a nightmare prospect whatever way you look at it. Working a room full of strangers, making instant impressions and coming away with more than a red face and sweaty palm is the least of it.
You need the courage of Vin Diesel to walk up to people deep in conversation and engage them in a meaningful way. But nifty networkers know how to enjoy the process of connecting and exchanging business cards which can lead on to meaningful professional relationships and even an increase in business and job opportunities.
As a seasoned networker myself I coach business owners and executives alike to overcome their fears and pre-conceived notions about what networking is and how to master the art of making core connections. Here are a few powerful tips to help you glide from floor to soar.
- Check your beliefs. Could you be thinking something negative about yourself, the people or the event before you? If you are assuming people won’t find you interesting, that you will never meet anyone worth connecting with or that you just aren’t memorable enough this could limit your chances. Try thinking – “I am curious about people and who is here” – “People may wish to know about me and what I have to offer”.
- Ice breakers. Be sure to have some killer ice breaking questions ready to roll after introductions. Good openers include “Hi, what would you like to get out of this event today?” or “Who have you come here to meet?” Always be prepared to ask lots of questions about the individual such as the business challenges they face, what clients they are looking for etc.
- Have a goal. Keep in mind what it is you wish to achieve from the event and even ask for it. Say who you would like to meet or what you would like to learn and other people may be able to connect you to the right person.
- Be the connector. Make yourself indispensible by introducing others, being the social fulcrum will get you noticed and is a generous way of doing business.
- Mark their card. When you received a business card, look at the person’s name, title and company and make a favourable comment about it. When they have gone make a little note on the back of their card to remind you of what you said and any future action you need to take. Always email them the next day to say you were delighted to meet them to ensure you remain in their consciousness.
- Be memorable. Looking good, being humorous and good company or sharing information that is useful to others is a good way of being remembered long after the event. What impression would you like to make on the people you are connecting with?
Remember practice makes perfect. Be confident and focused and you will find networking as easy as socializing but heaps more potential.
Next time – 'Those Killer Ice Breaking Questions'.
For more tips and information on Carole Ann Rice visit her website Real Life Coaching.
Stylist? Join our Directory
You receive leads straight into your inbox which you follow up at your earliest convenience. This is your chance to speak directly to prospective clients and increase your chances of getting those bookings.
Recent articles
-
Dressing for Work – the golden rules
Getting our client's work wardrobe right is possibly the biggest challenge we as stylists are faced with. Not only do you want to make a positive impression at work and be noticed for all the right reasons, but you also want to feel good... after all, you spend most of your life working! Here are some ideas for sorting out your work wardrobe.
-
What is the 2012 Royal Ascot Dress Code
If you are lucky enough to be heading to Royal Ascot this year then you may want to read this. The dress code has altered slightly and you wouldn’t want to go getting it wrong, believe me!
-
Milli Millu Handbags SS12 collection - WIN
Have we got a treat for you. Not only have we found an emerging handbag designer who is making waves for all the right reasons but we also have one of their handbags to give away... all £300 worth of glorious clutch!
Hot topics
-
The Pussycat Dolls Corset Look
Check out the Gorgeous Pussy Cat Dolls, proving they really do look incredible all of the time in pretty much anything, including corsets!
-
What Body Shape Am I?
Contrary to popular belief there are 5 different female body shapes, which have been somewhat overcomplicated through the years and given all sorts of interesting names. Understanding which body shape you are is the first rule of getting to grips with your wardrobe.
-
What’s the difference between a Personal Stylist and An Image Consultant?
There’s been much debate as to the difference between Image Consultants and Personal Stylists recently, so I am going to try and shed some light on the matter for you.
-
Have you got a shopping addiction?
Did you know that a staggering 25% of Brits are addicted to shopping according to a national survey carried out by Kensington Financial Management Consultants.