Seven Tips to Make Your Presence Count in the Networking Season. (Episode 2)

𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆: If you recall your networking experience, you are more likely to remember someone who makes you feel seen and heard. The key to making a good first impression on new friends is to bring your genuine curiosity and interest to the room. Show up with a warm smile and a firm handshake. Give people your full attention as they speak and be ready to explore what the relationship reveals.

𝗔𝘀𝗸 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: It is a good conversation starter to ask questions relating to the event - how does someone know the event organiser, what do they find interesting so far, how would they like any part of the event be different and so forth. As you build rapport with the new friend, encourage them to share more about what they like about their jobs, hobbies and passions - and be ready to share yours. For someone that’s more senior than you, asking for their opinion and vision on a topic would likely give great insights too.

𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗲 𝗬𝗢𝗨: We are whom we believe we are. Be present and active in the way that you want others to perceive you. Be ready to let your genuine self shine through the event. Bring with you an interesting story to tell and be ready to share something exciting that you are working on, or a meaningful project you are part of. Don’t be shy to share candidly that you are nervous about the event, or how excited you are to have the opportunity to meet someone here and learn from them.

𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝗽 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗽𝘁𝗹𝘆: Write a personalised thank-you note to the host and everyone you have met, ideally quoting one thing the two of you exchanged during the event. Plant a seed for the next encounter with the ones you enjoyed a quality conversation with. As my mentor always shares - it is all about relationships and the extra effort you put in.