How to be Better at Networking

One thing that seems to distinguish successful people is how extensive their networks are. Whenever you ask them how they would do something, their answer seems to be, “I know a guy.” Clearly, having such a large network is a major advantage.

What intrigues me about well-networked people is that they aren’t always the extroverts you expect them to be. This means that surrounding ourselves with a network of people that contribute positively to our lives is within the reach of most people, you just have to know what to do.

In addition to my personal networks, I also enjoy building networks through my career. You can find out more about what I do here - A&E an influencer agency. We provide influencer marketing services.

1. Be real

If you only look at networks as a source of personal gain, they are never going to work, because people are incredibly good at noticing when someone is not themselves. Rather, approach new relationships with the mindset that everyone knows something that you don’t. During a conversation, see if you can find out one interesting thing about that person and then ask them about it. The person will probably not mind sharing, because everybody likes to sound interesting! Now you’ve broken the ice and you’re on your way to connecting with that person.

2. Know your brand

Think about what makes you unique and think of a way to casually slip that into a conversation without appearing self-involved. It never ceases to amaze me how often the well-networked people I know are stopped in the street by a random person who remembers meeting them somewhere else a while back, due to an interesting conversation they had. It is entirely possible to be memorable without being vain.

3. Be patient

Because networking means making permanent connections, there is no point in rushing the process. Again, that will just look fake. At the beginning of any relationship, the most important thing is that everyone is comfortable. Reach out from time to time, but there is no need to push it.

4. Others can also do the work for you

The difference between a person who is well-networked and one that is super-networked is that the latter knows many other people who are just as networked as they are. By befriending another person with a large number of connections, you can tap into that resource. It may not be that simple to know which people are well-networked, but if you pay attention, you may be able to recognize them.

5. Bring something to the party

You cannot be best friends with everyone you meet, but with just a little effort, you can be sure that people will be more than happy to see you every time they bump into you. A quick text every so often can do wonders to maintain your larger circle of acquaintances.

6. Make a bit of an online effort

Even if you are not big into social media, you have to recognize the value of this technology. Just a few posts a month about interesting things that you are doing, or new insights that you have gained are enough to remind people that you are a fun or interesting person to have around.

Therefore, networking allows you access to opportunities you might not be able to find on your own. Your network has the potential to provide you with insight into different fields, information on what potential employers look for and advice on how you can improve professionally.

Also, networking will help you develop and improve your skill set, stay on top of the latest trends in your industry, keep a pulse on the job market, meet prospective mentors, partners, and clients, and gain access to the necessary resources that will foster your career development.