The literal translation of "networking" is "working your network of contacts." In a broader sense, it can be defined as a technique to exchange experiences with people who work in your sector or in another potential sector and who may be useful to you in the future , both for finding a job and for generating business opportunities.
Networking takes place at fairs, events, talks or any occasion where professionals with whom we are interested in establishing contact are going to attend. It is a rather informal environment, but oriented towards the work environment.
Promotion of our company or brand: a person who has visibility and notoriety at these list of colombia cell phone numbers events can become an influencer in the sector.
Meet new suppliers or companies to collaborate with.
Reach new customers.
Improve communication skills: you learn to listen and express your knowledge.
Conduct a competitor study: getting to know what they offer and how they do it.
The six keys to success at a networking event
Develop a strategy: carry out a preliminary study of the event you are interested in attending to identify the contacts you consider key to meet. You must be clear about why you want to go and what you are looking for. To 'break the ice' in your presentation, follow the latest publications of the people you want to talk to in order to get to know them as well as possible.
Prepare your materials: Business cards are a fundamental tool for building loyalty among your contacts. Make sure they contain your company or specialty, address, email, landline, mobile phone number and any other important information. You should save the cards you are given because you never know when you might need them.
Go alone: Although it's easier to go to events with someone, going alone will encourage you to talk and get to know each other better. Once you see someone you want to meet, smile, offer your hand, say your name and what you do.
Start natural conversations: approach the first contact with a positive attitude. Make eye contact and take care of your body posture. A good impression is key to empathizing with others. Rehearsing your speeches will make you feel more confident and will improve your power of persuasion to better "sell" your projects or ideas.
Prepare your exit speech : manage your time and if the conversation is satisfactory, opt for farewells such as: "It's been amazing talking to you, but I'm sure there are more people here who want to meet you. I'd like to continue this conversation later because I think we could work together on…" .
Keep in touch: Write to each of your new contacts in the days following the event. Emails or messages should be personalized with the goal of maintaining open communication. LinkedIn is the most effective social network for networking. All actions should be aimed at strengthening ties and generating mutual trust.
The following Infoempleo video summarizes all the points mentioned above and explains some of the mistakes you should avoid.
In recent years , "Speed networking" has become fashionable , events with short talks (two to ten minutes long) with each contact having the following dynamics:
Presentation.
Share professional experiences and business objectives.
Convey two main ideas.
Farewell.
In a world as globalized as today's, it is almost more important to know the right people, capable of making a difference at a given moment, than to have a good CV or a great business idea. So, don't hesitate to get started networking!
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Category: Professional Development