Someone recently asked HOW to network, so here’s how to network, with a little bit of coaching, of- course, b/c that’s how I roll.
1. Research to see what events happening, when & where. Start with the local chambers of commerce, peruse Facebook by filtering for local networking events, and ask around.
2. At events, collect business cards. This way, you have a name, phone number, email address, and you can likely find the person on social media.
3. On social: send friend requests ASAP. Start liking, commenting, sharing, and hanging out with them. Be AUTHENTIC. You can literally just type your thought into the comments.
4. In-person: check those business cards and pick a few people you’re genuinely interested in getting to know better. Contact them and schedule a coffee date. When you meet with them, be present to the person in front of you. If you have a firm end time, set the alarm as a gentle reminder- this way, you don’t even have to look at the time. You can let the person know as soon as you meet them, so it’s not awkward or feel personal. Get to know them, their business, and who their ideal clients are. Note this for any potential future referrals to send their way. Listen for pain points that you could offer relief with &/or share who your ideal clients are.
5. Notice what others are doing, that you like, and do that, too. I learned to send handwritten thank-you notes, tag others on social media, and pick up the phone to speak with people by mimicking others.
Coaching tip:
Be aware of your thoughts and choose HOW you want to show up. Are you worried no one will talk to you? Or they won’t like you? Or that you may have to sit alone? This feels like dread, worry, and nervousness- not the best way to show up to an event, right?
Try this instead. What qualities would you rather demonstrate? Being courageous, loving, smart, and kind. Next, ask yourself: what would someone who is courageous, loving, smart, and kind do? They would see this as a great way to meet people. They would be present to the person in front of them.
What are your best networking tips?
