When it comes to networking most of us sometimes do things wrong. Good networkers shouldn’t treat networking events like a house party by swirling amongst the VIP’s. Nor should they underplay their own potential or skills by only working the corner and doing a bad job of it in the process.

The following rules according to Karen Jayes and some ideas by networking guru Helen Nicolson might be of value for effective networking: -

1. WHAT CAN I GIVE?

Good networkers operate from a spirit of abundance. They look at a networking opportunity from the viewpoint of “what can I give” and not “what can I get?”. As opposed to being the extrovert in the room, good networkers are excellent listeners. Big-game networkers know that little people can provide a wealth of information and opportunity. Cultivate relationships at all levels – not just at the top.

2. KNOW WHY YOU SHOULD NETWORK

Business is built on good relationships, and the better you are at cultivating relationships with people who are diffirent from you, the easier doing business with them will become. Insecurities or feelings of superiority often cause people to congregate around those they know or feel more comfortable with. Networking is an ideal opportunity to show how you can connect different people to everybody’s benefit in the long run. It’s about working smart, not working hard.

3. BRAND YOURSELF RIGHT

If networking is the “how” of building your career or business, then branding is the “why”. Knowing what makes you and your business or talents unique is the key to good branding and successful networking.
Start by listing your top 5 strengths and play to them constantly when you are networking.  Always do it in a spirit of helpfulness – and never boast.

4. DON’T S.O.S NETWORK

Never contact people only when you are in trouble or you need something from them. Identify people in your network who are potential connectors and keep in regular, mutually beneficial contact. Keep them updated on news, articles or events you think they might be keen to attend.

5. DIVERSITY IS KING

The best connectors are business people who drive Harley’s and who are also involved with the community or their children’s schools. The more circles you move in, the more opportunity to connect. Rather than zoning in on the VIP’s, focus only on one or two people in a room who are diffirent from you. This way your network will become more diverse and interesting and therefore, more effective. South Africans are especially good at respecting and building on cultural nuances.

6. LISTEN WELL    

Most shy people think they can’t network which just isn’t true. They usually make very good connectors because they listen more carefully and look for potential. Extroverts are often too busy enjoying the sound of their own voice and opinions. Listening means opening your mind to the possibility and potential in everyone. It means remembering names and important facts about each person that you meet. The art of good conversation relies on listening and on being well-read. Read for your target market and add extra information when it is appropriate.

7. RESPECT THE CARD

When it comes to exchanging business cards, put some thought into it. A card is a brand communicator so when you exchange cards, make eye contact and comment on the card. Make sure the recepient takes note of the importance of you as a contact. Always make sure you have enough cards in your holder and keep extra in your purse.

8.         FOLLOW UP

This means phoning up or making contact after you have connected someone you’ve met to someone else you know. It is to check whether the experience went well for all parties involved. That way you can establish whether both are reliable members of your network and if you can close the loop.

9.         USE YOUR POWER

As women we need to awaken to the power of our acquaintance network. Once in full flight, such networks ease the demands of our constant work-life balancing act. Women are social and good listeners, so we make very good connectors. We are more inclined to trust people and our instincts regarding them which is essential to good networking.
In the male-dominated business world we need to create networks of our own. We should stop mourning the all-male golf events that we miss and start building on our own potential. Connect with the women you meet in the world around you – you never know what magic could happen.

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