The Art of Networking.
Networking is a funny old game.
I used to think that no one actually liked it, but the more I do, the more I start to see the positives and the more (shock, horror) I’m actually starting to like it more myself.
When I first started, it felt a bit like going on a run. The worst bit is the thinking about it and the resultant procrastination, buts its actually OK while you are doing it, and when you’ve finished, you feel great.
It’s also certainly true that the more you do it, the more comfortable you feel. I guess your comfort zone just gets a little bit bigger each time you push yourself into an unfamiliar situation. The other reason that it gets better over time is that you start to genuinely get to know people, meaning that you rarely walk into a room of complete strangers. A couple of times recently I have turned up at event, expecting to know no-one and seen three people I know before I have even taken my coat off!
I’ve also had some time to develop and test my fail safe networking strategy. Its a 3 step plan to account for crashing & burning at steps 1 & 2 - step 3 hasn’t failed me yet, if it does I might just go home ;)
When signing into an event, chat to anyone signing in along side you
Head for the refreshments, make a cuppa & chat with anyone in the vicinity
If 1 & 2 fail, approach someone else stood on their own and start a conversation - they will probably be glad you did - after all - everyone is there for the same reason
I mean, with a fair number of these events there are talks and presentations so you could get away with talking to no-one - but really, what would be the point?
I’m definitely starting to enjoy some of them…. just a little.
See you next month,
Kristen
