Networking can be very intimidating if not addressed properly. Being prepared with your 30 or 60 second speech is vital. Arriving at the networking event on time with plenty of business cards is essential. Even when you feel that you are fully prepared, it is still a bit awkward to approach strangers and start good conversations. Professionals must learn to improve their interpersonal skills and learn to connect with their business counterparts in order to be successful in networking. How can professionals feel comfortable at networking events? How can business people connect with others and make a great first impression?
Listed below are some helpful tips you can use to break the ice, come out of your shell, and get the most out of any networking event.
put on a happy face
To get more people to come to you at a networking event, professionals need to be friendly. A relaxed and friendly smile goes a long way and can draw people to you. Also making eye contact is another great way to get positive attention while networking. Professionals can also seem friendlier by having a relaxed mind and not stressing about the networking event itself. Repeating positive thoughts strengthens your mind and networking efforts and allows you to be free to focus on the networking event. And it goes without saying that “people are more likely to do business with others they know, trust, and like.”
positive body language
Another way that you can encourage people to get to know you is to have positive body language. This sets the tone of the conversation, as well as your first impression. You should not stand with your arms or legs crossed. Always remain relaxed and avoid putting your hands in your pockets or your hands on your hips. Hands and arms should be relaxed and at the side of the waist. Also, show that you are alert and energetic by standing up straight and exhibiting good posture. Once again, make eye contact and include a friendly smile to start conversation and small talk with your business counterpart.
electronic overload
A great way to encourage people to talk to you is to limit the distractions around you. This would include turning off your electronics and other digital devices. It might even be better to leave them in your car in the glove box or trunk out of sight. People are less likely to start a conversation if you’re checking your email, returning a call, or typing a message. Your main focus should be on the networking event and the people at the event. Unless there’s an important call or message to take, you can excuse yourself and then quickly head back to the networking event.
