At Mosaic Engagement, we define networking as meeting for a purpose. It could be to exchange ideas, seek new employment opportunities, or sell something. It’s getting together for a reason. 

Everyone you meet has something to teach you, so every new connection is a learning opportunity. The wider your network, and the more people from different circles, the more opportunity. For example, if you want to fill a vacant job position, a wide network means a richer pool to draw from, and the more likely you are to get a good candidate.

Let’s discuss some strategies for effective networking to help you build new connections and nurture your existing ones. For this article, we’ll focus on strategies for in-person networking.

1. Narrow down why you want to network or what you want the result to be

In the corporate or non-profit world, we often wear multiple hats. The more you narrow down what you need right now, the easier it’ll be to keep the conversation focused. For example, you may be responsible for sponsorship, volunteer management, and event planning, but at the moment, you need to focus on recruiting volunteers, and you’re at a volunteer fair. Even though there may be networking opportunities related to your other responsibilities, you’ll be more successful at recruiting volunteers if you keep that at the core of your conversations.  

To help narrow your focus, ask why you want to network or meet someone new. Keep asking yourself why until you get to the core. For example, if you’re looking for a new job, ask:

• Why should I go to the job fair? To find a new job.

• Why do I want a new job? Because I’m not happy in my current role. 

• Why am I not happy in my current role? Because I’m not putting my communications diploma to good use. 

• Where can I put my communications diploma to good use?

Asking yourself these questions will help you keep focused while you’re at the career fair and only approach organizations with communications opportunities.

Another way you can help narrow your focus is to envision the future. Think about one, two, or five years for now. What do you want your new role to look like? Do you see an office with windows with a view of the park? Do you see social opportunities with your coworkers? What type of work are you doing? How does that work make you feel? What aspects of this future are positive? You can then see your ideal work scenario, which can help you zone in on what organizations might be a good fit for you.

2. Prepare what you’re going to present while networking

Now that you have your why, how will you communicate it? Think of two or three core ideas or topics worth mentioning. You could mention your career history or what you’re working on now. It’s a basic, expected, and light-hearted way to get the conversation going. You could also include something personal - where you grew up, a recent podcast you listened to, or a hobby you love. It’s also worth touching on why you’re attending the event. Once you’ve brainstormed your topics, practice! Say it to a mirror, wall, pet, or family member, especially if you’re not confident talking about yourself to a new person. Doing so will help you build confidence and feel more comfortable. 

It can also be helpful to take a friend or colleague who can talk about you, and you can talk about them. Introductions come more naturally with your hype person by your side.

Once you’re at the event, it’s time to jump in. Decide who you will talk to. They might be someone in the registration line, or you might meet them during an intentional networking break. Regardless of whom you speak to, we often forget that everyone else there also wants to network. You’re not the only person who wants to talk. Try asking them a question to truly get the conversation flowing. It’s important to actively listen and not just wait for your turn to speak.

3. Don’t hesitate to leverage your existing network

In The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference, Malcolm Gladwell writes, “The more acquaintances you have, the more powerful you are.”

Unlike your close friends and colleagues, your acquaintances thrive in a different social universe than you. They likely know about jobs and networking opportunities that those in your inner circle may not.

4. Always touch base and follow through

Go from conversation to connection by asking them if you can follow up. For example, ask if you can send the registration link for your upcoming event. Or ask if you can send them your resume. If you met in a more casual setting, perhaps exchange business cards, Instagram handles, email addresses or add each other on LinkedIn. 

To ensure you follow through, put a reminder in your phone with a couple of notes from your conversation. If they mentioned a project they’re working on, start your outreach by asking how their project is going. Find a reason to follow up and ask them about themselves. It’s a delicate balance between selling yourself and being genuine. It is possible to do both! Offer your assistance as well. For example, “I enjoyed meeting you last week. What can I do to help you?”

It’s no secret that networking can be intimidating, especially for women. It’s not nearly as common for women to bond on the golf course, and men typically wait for women to initiate a handshake. So, how can women become empowered and confident going into networking events? 

Mosaic Engagement offers an Effective Networking Workshop built by women, for women. It’s designed to encourage women to feel comfortable networking. We discuss an effective handshake, develop elevator pitches, and work through various networking scenarios. This workshop is typically three hours, but a condensed one-hour version is available if time is limited. Get in touch to book your Effective Networking Workshop.