Five Ways To Boost Your (Online) Networking

Five Ways To Boost Your (Online) Networking

Networking is a significant part of many businesses.

However, it’s something that I feel that is often not used to its full potential. With many networking events now going digital, it’s time to take traditional learnings and apply them online.

There’s more to successful Networking than just logging onto the next zoom call and listening to what others have to say or even worse only speaking to people you already know.

These tips are designed to give you a different viewpoint to allow you to get the most of your valuable networking time.

1)   Embrace new technologies.

At the moment, it is not possible to go and meet your regular Networking group.

That doesn’t mean that Networking is on hold until after the world returns to ‘normal.’

Many groups are embracing the video technologies that weren’t available in the past, from Zoom to Skype and even Facebook messenger, events are taking place online.

Don’t be afraid to embrace the new technologies, and if you don’t know the etiquette for online Networking, follow the basics.

BE POLITE, ENGAGED, AND DON’T WEAR YOUR DRESSING GOWN!

 

2)   Network to help others, not just yourself.

Networking to help others, is the most crucial point in this list, and if you take nothing else from reading this, remember that NETWORKING ISN’T ABOUT YOU!

People tend to do business with those that they TRUST and LIKE.

The only way to build that trust is to engage with others helpfully. Trust takes a long time to build and can be ruined in an instant if your contact feels you’re insincere about your interest.

Putting your goals first shouldn’t cross your mind; remember that you’re trying to build a relationship with someone that will (hopefully last years), which means you should be thinking about them and how to solve their problems.

Make it your job to understand the people in your network, where they are coming from, and what’s important to them.

3)   Networking is about listening to what people say, don’t make it all about you.

This point is similar to the previous but slightly different.

Make sure that you take the time to listen to peoples’ stories. By listening to your networking connections, you will gain valuable information about what they need.

It also gives you insight into their past and allows you to gain an understanding of why they do what they do. What people may have needed before the global pandemic, has changed, so even if you know their previous need, spending time listening to their current dilemmas, will enable you to help more efficiently.

Remember, Networking isn’t about you if you listen more than you speak you’ll be better able to refer and give valuable introductions, helping you become a more valued part of their network.

4)   Email is easy

 

Being able to send information directly to a person’s phone or computer is one of the most significant breakthroughs of the 20^th century, it allows the almost instantaneous transfer of knowledge and information to anywhere in the world.

It is both a blessing and a curse.

Yes, email is quick, simple, and can be sent to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

IT’S ALSO VERY EASY TO IGNORE.

If you want to do business with someone, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and give them a call to arrange a (virtual) face-to-face meeting.

These communication methods are more personal and are more difficult to ignore. An email is an excellent tool for business, but don’t be afraid to use the traditional techniques of actually talking to people.

5)   Make sure you follow up.

While everything on this list is essential when conducting both virtual and face-to-face Networking, this is arguably the most underused and most important step to follow.

A couple of days after ‘meeting’ someone for the first time, make sure to follow up with a brief phone call (best option), email or note.

This is an opportunity to develop the relationship by bringing up a topic that you discussed before (remember when you were listening to them) or making a comment on an exciting topic you think will be of value to them or news article you’ve written.

Following up (promptly) with relevant conversation helps to anchor yourself in their minds and gives you the chance to cement your new relationship.

Just remember, unless they’ve asked for a quote or some more information, DON’T SELL, that will come later, and will help you stand out from everyone else.

Conclusion

Many businesses find networking uncomfortable, but it is a lot easier than you might think.

The more questions you ask, the happier people will be to talk to you and the more you will get out of each event.

Everyone enjoys having someone listen to them, especially at the moment when we’re all social distancing. Hence, all you need to do is ask plenty of open questions and be genially interested in their responses!