Networking
Networking is a must. This is something we all know, yet which is easier said than done. How does one network efficiently? By giving, giving and giving some more, according to networking expert Dimitri Verhoye. “It is not because you do something for your network that you should immediately expect something in return. I give, but I have time. My idea is: at some point, everyone can be useful to you.”
A solid network provides opportunities. Are you a proficient networker? If not, then you could benefit from networking specialist Dimitri Verhoye’s tips. “Networking begins with meeting people. But the real work starts after that: maintaining your network and benefiting from it.” He offers tips on how to do this.
During the event
Arrive early
When you arrive early, groups have yet to form and you a free to decide who to approach. Furthermore, you see who arrives and can talk to them immediately.
Position yourself near the exit
You will not only see who enters, but also who leaves. That way you will be able to intercept the people you specifically wish to speak with just before they leave.
Be prepared
Make sure you have a good pitch at the ready to introduce yourself. It is important that you are never the first to make your pitch. When you allow your interlocutors to go first, you can react to their interests in your own pitch.
Avoid large groups
Never force your way into a group; it is impolite. Try to catch the eye of someone in the group. If you succeed, then you can latch onto someone that is bored and relieve him from his suffering.
Avoid colleagues
Never go to a networking event with more than one colleague. Are more than one attending? Ignore them. If you don’t, there is a good chance that you will spend the entire evening complaining with your colleagues about all that is going wrong in the company.
Let others speak
The ideal ratio is 80 percent listening and 20 percent talking.
Do not talk about work
Avoid boring conversations about work. Ask about hobbies, passions and interests. There is a good reason why we do our best networking while on vacation, namely: because then we talk about everything but work.
Speak last to those you already know
First expand your network and then seek out people you know. Otherwise you will hardly make the acquaintance of new people. Furthermore, it gives you an escape route from a tedious conversation.
Drink using your left hand
This way your right hand will always be available to shake hands or to produce your business card from your pocket.
Eat before going
There is nothing as unpleasant as having all eyes looking at you while you have a mouth full of food. Therefore, make sure that you eat ahead of time.
Shake everyone’s hand
Either you shake hands with everyone in a group, or with no one. Do not shake hands with half the group and not with the other half.
Go home early
The later it gets, the more the drinks start flowing, and this is not conducive for networking.
After the event
Fill in your business cards
Fill in the business cards that you have received. Note the date, location, event and possibly who introduced you to one another. Do not just write down contact information, but also reference points such as hobbies, passions and projects.
Contact people again immediately
A contact goes cold after one to three days. So do not wait to email, phone or connect on LinkedIn.
Never let others call with your ‘regards’
When you have built up a strong network, feel free to let others benefit from it. But never say: “Call him and give my regards.” Take it into your own hands and get them in contact. Then they will both owe you one.
Phone on birthdays
Everyone enjoys receiving birthday wishes, and that is the ideal day to phone without any ulterior motive. Think twice about who you are calling, because once you have started you will have to call every year. Otherwise you will seem opportunistic.
Source: De Standaard
