Networking is an age-old concept that’s perhaps as old as man. History shows us that ancient human societies were mostly composed of hunters and gatherers, with the 2 distinct groups collaborating to build strong communities in ancient times.
While man has evolved and come through various industrial revolutions and eras between then and now, the in-grained human instinct for networking and collaborating with others never changed.
Networking today is often compared to dating. Just like finding the perfect partner (even if I believe there is no “perfect partner” out there), building strong business relationships takes time, intentional effort, and a little bit of finesse.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, service provider, or freelancer, networking is essential to the growth and success of your business. But then… we all know how networking events can easily turn into a “corny” affair where everyone is trying to grandstand. Or you may even feel like you’re “clinching” at any of these events while trying to connect with fellow professionals.
If you’ve ever felt like this… or seen networking events in this light, then hold tight to your phone (or laptop) because we’ve got some top tips, ideas, and tricks to get past that fear of networking… and network without feeling like you’re trying to “force a connection”.
First and perhaps most important
- Be yourself – We both know you’re not Dangote or Otedola… so don’t go there acting like you are! People can usually tell when you’re being fake and can see through unnecessary “packaging”, and it’s not a good look. So, just be yourself, go there to represent your brand positively, and connect with others and you’ll attract the right people.
Next up…
- Make a good first impression – Remember that time you wanted to buy meat in the market and the seller was rude to you? Do you remember the seller’s face, name, or colour of the work clothes he had on that day? Me neither, but I’m sure you remember his shop and you NEVER GO THERE again… because first impressions are powerful and all you remember about him is that he was rude to you. And I’m sure you don’t want anyone to associate you–or your brand– with rudeness.
So make sure you are courteous, respectful to people, dressed professionally, greet everyone with a firm handshake (when you can), and make eye contact.
Another crucial tip…
- Bring Contact Details – Studies show only about 15% of people will remember your face or name after meeting you for the first time. So, why would you think any of them will remember you–or your brand– if you do not give them your contact details?
You see where I’m going with this, yeah? Good. You see, you never know when you might meet someone who could be a valuable connection. Having a physical business card, digital business card or your Workstedi account info on hand makes it easy to exchange contact information. These tools allow you to have all your contact information in one place.
The Workstedi account takes it a step further because it includes your portfolio–with your experience– and verifiable reviews… so check it out and see how well it works.
Here goes the next:
- Listen more than you talk – Everyone likes to know they’re heard… and listened to. It’s why the lines of certain radio stations in Lagos are always buzzing… because everyone wants someone–or the whole of Lagos– to listen to them. And yes, it is clear people love to talk about themselves (social media shows us that anyway), so let them.
By listening carefully, you’ll learn about their needs and interests. And perhaps, you can even pitch to them if your business can offer a solution to their needs!
And the last one–and perhaps the real MONEYMAKER.
- Follow up – Remember what I said earlier about people forgetting names and faces? Well… it’s a bit worse with brands. So, after a networking event, make sure to follow up with the people you met.
Send them a WhatsApp message, a DM on Twitter, an email, or a LinkedIn message (so you stay in their conscious memories) and remind them of who you are and how you can help them.
So you see… networking doesn’t have to seem like “clinching”. Networking can be a lot of fun if you approach it with the right attitude.
Remember to be yourself, make a good first impression, bring contact details, listen more than you talk, and follow up with the people you meet. And most importantly, don’t take yourself too seriously. After all, networking is just like dating. It’s all about finding the right match. So, put on your best outfit, practice your elevator pitch and go out there and make some connections!
In conclusion, networking is an essential part of building a successful business and industry, but it doesn’t have to be boring or intimidating.
So follow these tips at your next networking event… and let us know which ones worked best for you.
Happy networking!
