Networking can be quite daunting, especially for young adults just beginning their careers. The idea of entering a room filled with seasoned professionals, each with years of experience, and aiming to connect with them can be particularly intimidating. It’s natural to feel that your own experience might seem insignificant compared to those you’re hoping to engage with. Despite this, networking is vital for both business and personal development, as it opens doors to new opportunities, helps build valuable relationships, and fosters growth in your chosen field.
The reality is that everyone who is attending the event is there for the exact same purpose as you: to build relationships and connect with industry professionals, exchange knowledge, discover mutually beneficial opportunities, and advertise your brand. At Oliver & Co, employees have the valuable opportunity to attend a wide range of networking events, allowing them to hone their networking skills throughout their careers. For those just beginning their networking journey or yet to start, we’ve compiled a few tips to help make your next networking event a success.
Plan Ahead
Like most aspects of the professional world, planning ahead is imperative when it comes to networking. Ahead of attending an event you should be asking the following questions:
- What is the event?
- Do I know who else will be attending?
- Will I need to speak at the event?
- Are there any current affairs which are involved with the industries the event is centered around I need to be aware of?
- What are my aims?
Asking yourself these questions well in advance is imperative to making sure your time at a networking event is as productive as it is meaningful for your own personal development. In addition to making sure you are a proactive participant of the event, fortifying your mindset and making sure you are well prepared can quell any worries you may have ahead of attending.
Don’t be afraid to start a conversation
The whole purpose of networking is to build bridges between like-minded individuals to advance themselves and their respective brands. The foundations that build these bridges lie in the art of initiating conversation. The idea of approaching someone you’ve never met and starting a conversation can feel daunting, especially early in your networking journey, as it seems to challenge the norms of modern etiquette.
However, the opportunities and discoveries that define your purpose at an event will not reveal themselves unless you decide to step out of your comfort zone and initiate conversations. Embracing the art of conversation, despite feeling apprehensive, is crucial for forging valuable connections and advancing your career. One effective way to overcome this hesitation is by having a few conversation starters in mind—thoughtful questions or comments that can break the ice and lead to deeper discussions, or even just a simple “Hello”. By engaging with others and showing genuine interest, you unlock the potential for meaningful relationships and professional growth.
Stay in touch with your network
Having prepared and engaged effectively at the event, the next crucial step is to maintain and nurture the connections you’ve made. Exchanging business cards remains a time-tested method for staying in contact, but utilising LinkedIn can also enhance your networking efforts by connecting with the people you meet.
After the event, send a follow-up message on LinkedIn to the people you spoke with. This gesture solidifies the connection, demonstrates your continued interest, and lays the groundwork for ongoing professional relationships. Staying connected and nurturing these relationships will help you build a strong, supportive network for your future career.
Turning Connections into Success
Networking is a vital skill that, when approached with preparation and confidence, can significantly enhance your career and brand’s trajectory. By planning ahead, engaging in meaningful conversations, and maintaining your connections, you set the stage for professional growth and success. Embrace the opportunities networking presents, and you’ll find yourself building valuable relationships that will support and advance your career for years to come.
