Excellent networking is a skill that can be a tremendous boost to your business. However, a lot of business owners do not know how to make proper and lasting connections. Many also see networking as a task and practically don’t know how to go about it. If you find yourself in this category, this article is just for you. You’ve probably just been doing some things wrong. So, let’s look at the right way to do this. Rest assured, your networking game is about to hit several notches higher.
The first thing that comes to most people’s minds when they hear networking is for them to have a lot of contacts. Scrap this mentality right away because it’s far from the truth. Productive networking dwells more on building relationships. You should strive for quality relationships. When you meet with business contacts, relate with them personally. Sometimes, abstain from the business talk and convert your networks to friends. Get to know about them and what interests them.
No doubt, communication is key in any relationship. How do you build effective communication? Pay attention and ask meaningful questions when necessary. The quality of your questions and contributions tells your business contact a lot about you. When talking about business, let each of your words show that you have value to give. When having casual conversations, be actively involved, and show your genuine interest in their lives.
Another vital career networking skill a lot of people don’t pay attention to is becoming a super-connector. A super-connector is one who brings two people together who can mutually benefit from each other. Everyone wants to meet a super-connector, but few want to become one. By becoming a super-connector, you get to strengthen your network, build their trust, and gain their respect.
You need to be armed with these career networking skills to see your business flourish on a whole new level. Build strong relationships. Communicate effectively with them. Introduce them to those you know can help solve their problems. With these tips, your network can grow to a level that your business will profit significantly from.