In this wired, connected age, you need to network to survive and thrive. How best to do it? Here are a few tips – strategize how you plan to go about it, rehearse and practice at home, be a good listener, offer value, and follow up. Work on these tips and your networking will improve in leaps and bounds.
Key Takeaways:
- Before heading into a networking event, take some time to think about your strategy. Is there something specific you’re aiming to accomplish?
- How you introduce yourself sets the tone for the rest of the conversation, so make sure you do yourself justice. Practice a quick elevator pitch for yourself, remembering to touch on not just what you do, but how well you do it.
- You should plan to listen at least as much as you speak. When you’re actively engaged, you’re sure to learn something valuable from whoever you’re speaking with.
“Having those things in mind — before you ever enter into a conversation — will help you ensure that you actually get what you came for.”