How To Network Effectively

How To Network Effectively

Experts from Avanti, the networking group in Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds, share their top tips on how to network effectively and get the most out of your time at a networking event.

Body Language – A rather simple networking tip but one which is often forgotten – smile! By smiling you will put your nervous self at ease and you will come across as warm and inviting. So remember to smile before you enter the room or start your next conversation. Remember to maintain open positions, avoid folding your arms or standing with your back to people in group conversations. Use a firm handshake, but adjust your grip according to the person whose hand you are shaking.

The Art of Listening – Ask open-ended questions in networking conversations, this means questions that ask who, what, where, when, and how as opposed to those that can be answered with a simple yes or no. This type of questioning opens up the discussion and shows listeners that you are interested in what they have to say.

Personalise Your Business Card – Your Business Card is your ‘shop window’. Will people remember you 24 hours, 7 days or 1 month after you gave them your Business Card? The next time that you hand out a business card, personalise it. Make a note on there of something that you both discussed, had in common, a distinct trait of yours. The recipient now not only has your card, but they have a personal touch too.

Referrals  – these are a reflection of you and your business, those that are given to you, and how you respond will determine your future growth. Therefore, it is really important to act on referrals efficiently and effectively, if it is not something that you can help with be sure to follow up, introduce yourself and refer a trusted fellow networker who can. You may not be able to help this time, but you have made a new contact and a future prospect. Receiving a referral is the greatest ‘thank you’ that you can give, so make it count.

For regular monthly Networking Tips provided by our members, come and visit Avanti Networking

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