Networking
Written by Jamie May
Networking: How to Actually Make It Work for Your Business
Written by Jamie May
Networking is just meeting people and promoting your business by mouth. Simple concept, poorly executed by most.
If you’re a genuine introvert, hate mixing your social and work life, or struggle to make conversation with strangers, this one might not be your strongest channel. No shame in that. But if you’re willing to put yourself in a room, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it.
Stop Pitching. Start Listening.
The biggest mistake people make at networking events is leading with their own business. Nobody cares yet. You haven’t earned the right to vomit all over someone with your life story. Nobody cares.
The approach that actually works:
Ask what the other person does. Listen properly, not just waiting for your turn to talk. Understand what their challenges are. When they eventually come around and ask what you do, you can tailor your answer directly to solving the problem they just told you mattered to them.
That’s the difference between a forgettable elevator pitch and a conversation someone remembers.
Business Cards and QR Codes
Despite what younger people will tell you, business cards still work. Have them on you. If the person you’re talking to is more digitally inclined, learn how to pull up your LinkedIn QR code on your phone. Takes thirty seconds to set up and looks sharper than fumbling with contact details.
Where to Actually Go
Networking doesn’t have to mean stiff industry breakfasts and awkward small talk over bad coffee though those work too. Good places to meet potential clients or referral partners include conferences, industry events, product launches, after work drinks, and yes, even art gallery openings. Anywhere people are relaxed and open to conversation.
The key is following up the initial contact within 48 hours with an email or call. “Hey Mark, we met at the popcorn making conference a couple of days ago…”
The Takeaway
Find one event in your industry or local business community happening in the next two weeks and go. Set yourself a simple goal; have three real conversations where you learn something about the other person’s business before you mention your own. See what comes of it.
And if you want to get serious about this skill, How to Win Friends and Influence People is still the best starting point.
