The Art of Networking

Business networking is an undeniably powerful tool, especially in the business world, and can be a great benefit to all involved if used correctly. Over the past few years, I have learnt a lot of tips to maximise these benefits.

Some of these are:

1. Always carry your business cards with you, and give them away liberally. Most people will keep these for future reference. While it’s good to give them away liberally, don’t go pushing your card onto every person you meet.

2. Attend at least one networking function each week, more if possible.

3. Don’t join a group, attend one function and expect work to come your way from other members. Chances are that this won’t happen. It takes time to build rapport and get yourself and your skills known. Think of networking as relationship building.

4. Networking works two ways. You need to offer support to others if you want to receive support from them. If you don’t need the goods or services offered by Mr. X, perhaps you know someone who does.

5. When attending functions, don’t stay with the same people the whole time. Mingle!

6. Remember the old saying that it’s not what you know but who you know? I believe it’s partly what and who you know, but more so who knows you! It’s no good having great products and skills if nobody knows about them.