Effective Networking Strategies: Craft Your Future
Networking has long been a critical element of job searching and career success. For many people, creating and maintaining an effective network is challenging.
Diane Darling, CEO of Skills4Today and author of "The Networking Survival Guide," considered the definitive book on networking, recently appeared on Get a G.R.I.P. with Coach Elix. She offered some advice and effective networking strategies for those who might not be comfortable with the idea. After several years in which in-person networking has taken a back seat to online activities, it's an excellent time to re-evaluate your approach to making connections and building your personal network.
As Darling notes, "No matter how smart and talented you are, you need the help of others to reach your true potential."
Getting Into the Spirit of Networking, One Contact at a Time
To get the most from your networking efforts and build relationships, Darling says it's essential to focus on quality over quantity when you attend a networking event. "With networking, less is often more," she said. Aiming to meet a certain number of people isn't effective because "I can meet five people most anywhere. That doesn't mean I want to see them again or they want to see me again."
Instead, she advocates establishing quality relationships, which takes time. Trying to close a deal too soon, providing too much information, not customizing your interactions with people, and not being yourself aren't going to make you successful at networking.
Asking someone you've only recently met to provide contacts or do something for you is not how you build relationships. Making it clear what you bring to the relationship and investing time in strengthening existing relationships are more effective networking strategies for building a stronger personal network.
Overcoming Your Fear of Networking
Darling acknowledges that it's common to feel apprehensive or nervous before you attend a networking event. In fact, she took acting and stand-up comedy classes to overcome her fear of public speaking, which she says helped her become a better networker. "Being confident on your feet and connecting with others makes both parties feel good and that they want to continue the conversation."
To feel more comfortable, consider attending events where it's okay if you feel awkward. A low-stakes event allows you to try different approaches and practice making contacts. Bringing a friend or colleague can also help you feel more comfortable in a room where you don't know everyone.
Take deep breaths to calm yourself, and smile when approaching people. When you focus time and energy on getting one-on-one follow-ups, you'll become more confident and effective at networking.
You can hear more about Diane Darling's effective networking strategies on "Get a G.R.I.P with Coach Elix," hosted by Coach Elix Citron, a respected leadership coach and founder of the G.R.I.P. method, the weekly radio show, and podcast that features thought-provoking discussions with experts to help leaders grow and overcome obstacles
Connecting with Diane Darling
The G.R.I.P. Method
G.R.I.P. stands for "Greatness Requires Intention & Purpose," and many who have followed this method can attest to that. This strategy helps people find their goals, inspirations, and visions and execute them with clear intentions through planning, purpose, and integrity. It works with science and psychology to make dreams a reality.
It is a roadmap that guides you through struggles and hardships, with the final destination being the life you want to lead or the changes you wish to make. The G.R.I.P. Method offers a plan to go from fear to freedom and helps you break away from where past attempts did not work.
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