We've all been told that networking is key to success in our professional lives. But what if you're not sure how to network effectively? Here are the 3 simple principles to follow that will help you get the most out of networking events:
These 3 ups are the pure essence of effective networking.
Catch up
Any networking event is obviously only as good as the people who show up. Showing up is half the battle and if you don't make an appearance, you're missing out on potential opportunities. You never know who you'll meet at these events and it's always a good idea to have a positive attitude and be open to meeting new people. Who knows, you might just meet your next business partner or client. And even if you don't, networking is still a great way to expand your professional network and make some new friends.
Follow up
So you went to the event and collected a bunch of business cards. Now what? It's time to follow up! Whether you're looking for a job, trying to expand your network, or just trying to make new friends, following up is crucial. But how do you follow up without being too pushy? First, send a quick email or LinkedIn message thanking the person for their time. Then, invite them to coffee or lunch. This is a low-key way to catch up and get to know each other better. Finally, stay in touch! Send emails or LinkedIn messages every few months, and make sure to attend networking events on a regular basis.
Catch up
One of the best ways to maintain networking relationships is to keep in touch with people you've met at previous events. Taking the time to catch up with your connections shows that you value their relationship and want to keep the lines of communication open. Plus, it helps to ensure that your connections will remember you when they need your services or know someone who does. There are a few easy ways to stay in touch, such as sending a quick email or connecting on social media. You can also set up periodic check-ins, either in person or by phone, to touch base and see how things are going. By staying in touch with your networking contacts, you'll build stronger relationships and be top of mind when opportunities arise.
Here's an example of a simple, but great email to send to your connections:
Hey {first name},
It was great meeting you at {event name} last year. I wanted to schedule a time for us to reconnect this week over some lunch. What's a good day for you?
Hey {first name},
It was great meeting you at {event name} last year. I wanted to schedule a time for us to reconnect this week over some lunch. What's a good day for you?
The next time you go to a business networking event, keep the three ups in mind. By following up with the people you meet, staying connected, and always being willing to chat, you’ll be on your way to building powerful business relationships that can help take your career to the next level. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start networking!