No man is an island. And this reigns true even in the world of business. You need to have business partners, associates and even mentors to move forward in your career. Not sure where to start? Then networking is your best bet. Move up the corporate ladder with our 7 creative ways to network.
What is Networking?
Networking is a great way to connect with individuals within the same field or have the same interests. This allows you to share knowledge like ideas and information. It can take place in a variety of places, in both business and informal settings. Where you are networking for your business, or your own career, it is a great way to build relationships with professionals in a field.
7 Creative Ways to Network
Ready to walk right up to someone in a crowd? That might sound easy, but it’s not always the case. Avoid any mishaps with our 7 creative ways to network. Put your best foot forward and put your networking skills to the test.
- Have a clear goal
- Get comfortable with networking
- Start off with casual conversation
- Ask questions
- Have a give and take attitude
- Build lasting relationships
- Look outside of your own industry
Have a Clear Goal
Find out what you want to accomplish from networking. Do you want to learn something new? Or meet people to grow your business? Your goals will help you determine who you want to connect with and what type of networking event works for you.
Get Comfortable With Networking
Not everyone feels confident in a social event, whether it’s online or in-person. Instead of shying away from it, get comfortable with connecting with other professionals. In the end, it will be beneficial to you and your career. Who knows, they might even learn something from you.
Start off With Casual Conversation
Even if you have a clear goal in mind, start off with friendly, casual conversation. Lead into the topic with the person or group you are talking to. Create a space where everyone feels comfortable speaking to each other. In this way, the conversation won’t feel forced or rushed.
Ask Questions
Grab the opportunity to speak to as many experts as you can. Don’t get personal with questions such as asking about their salary. If you’re new in the industry, ask them about their experiences and lessons learned. If you want to meet associates and clients, ask them about their field, services and why they are there.
Have a Give and Take Attitude
One of the keywords when it comes to networking is sharing. Instead of looking at what you can gain, feel free to share your expertise as well. This creates an opportunity for others to learn from you too. You might have the knowledge that can help a fellow professional or graduate.
Build Lasting Relationships
Having professionals within your network is great for business. So instead of just seeing them at the event or online, try to build lasting relationships. Depending on your goal, they may employ you, help out with projects or even offer sound advice.
Look Outside of Your own Industry
Networking in your own industry is a great way to connect with those who share your interests. But it narrows down plenty of your options and opportunities. Expand your reach by networking with professionals outside of your field. You might get help and advice you can use in your own business and career.
Where to Network
When thinking of networking, do you have formal attire, name tags and business cards in mind? Well those aren’t the only places you can network. It can take place at a formal event, or unplanned right at your local coffee shop. Below are some of the many places you can network.
Within Your Own Circles
No need to head to another province or country. You can network right in your own circles. You can meet up with family, friends and even former colleagues. The help you need might be closer than you think.
Conferences and Seminars
In this day and age, there are plenty of different conferences and seminars you can attend. Whether you are sent by your boss or attend an online seminar, you have plenty of options to choose from. Take a look at what’s available, the topics discussed, and choose one that suits you.
Career Expos
Changing careers or entering the workforce? Then attending a career expo could be right up your alley. This is a great way to help students choose a course, or help graduates find an internship. Here you have an opportunity to talk to experts about their experiences and advice.
Social Media Platforms
Gone are the days where you can only post images and talk about your day. With social media, you can do so much more. Social media apps like LinkedIn create a platform for professionals to share information, post job opportunities and connect with business.
Social Events
Networking allows you to connect. And what better way to do this than at a social gathering? It can be at a party, wedding or a drink with friends. The opportunity could present itself in the most unlikely of places, with the best results.
Become a Volunteer
There are plenty of career benefits of volunteering. And one of those benefits is networking. You get to volunteer at a range of locations and meet many people along the way. You’ll be able to build your networks while doing charitable activities.
Your Own Networking Event
Can’t find a place to attend? Then host your own networking event. This could be for your company or hosted by yourself. Create a space where experts are able to meet other professionals that will help you in the process. Make sure it has a focus or purpose. Invite people who share the same interests, and enjoy!
Skills Academy is the word support in every way.
Network for Success
With our 7 creative ways to network, you’ll be able to connect and share valuable information. But that’s not all. We have a variety of courses that will help you boost your skills and career. Want to learn more? Contact our course experts for more details. You can:
- Call us on 0800 39 00 27 – it’s free
- Fill in our contact form for a call back
