Let’s face it, these days networking is a part of life. Whether you enjoy networking or not or realize it, we all network in one form or another. Some of us are better at it than others.  There are many ways to network. You can attend an event, meet someone in the line at the grocery store or make a connection via the Internet with someone you may never meet in person.  Networking is all about making a connection with someone that ideally results in a relationship where you each share of information, ideas, contacts, resources and/or opportunities. It’s how many people get their jobs.  There’s the popular saying, “It’s all about who you know.” To some degree this is very true.  However, it’s also about what you know that  can make the connection more fruitful. Who you know may get you in the door, but what you know keeps you in.

For many, the thought of networking can be daunting. This can be particularly true for those who are shy about approaching new people and striking up a conversation in an unfamiliar setting with people they don’t know.  Networking doesn’t have to be unpleasant. In fact, with a little practice and preparation, networking can be enjoyable and easy. 

Networking can be an effective way of growing your business, finding a new job, or gaining access to opportunities and information that you wouldn’t ordinarily have. There are many keys to networking. A few of the most important keys include being willing to share and help someone else and finding common ground.  It’s easier to spark up a conversation with someone when you have similar interests or something else in common. While The Evolution Exchange event to benefit Girls Inc. D.C. is a fundraiser, it is also an designed to be a networking event centered around a good cause.  We hope that the guests of our first event establish some wonderful connections that enhance their lives professionally and personally.

Here are a few conversation starters and some tips that can help you become a better networker. Even if you enjoy networking and are good at it, there are always ways to improve your skills and make the most out of the connections you make. 

Conversation Starters:

• How did you hear about this event?
• What do you do?
• How do you know the host/hostess?

10 Tips to Being An Successful Networker:

1. Set goals you want to achieve as a result of the event. It may be new client contacts, introduction to a specific company or contact at a company, new business opportunities, etc.

2. If possible, find out who will be in attendance before you go so you can do some research and make sure to connect w/specific people. Some events will post an attendee list, if not, ask the host.

3. Stay focused and make sure you meet the people you want to connect with.

4. Take plenty of business cards! It is a good practice to keep a stash in places like your wallet, jacket pocket, purse, etc.

5. Practice your elevator speech before you go so that you feel polished and confident about your company, business, etc.

6. Be friendly, welcoming and authentic. Look like someone that someone else would enjoy speaking with. Look your best, smile, make eye contact. Listen and don’t dominate the conversation. Repeat the person’s name if you have trouble remembering names.

7. Be willing to share information, contacts and resources. Don’t approach networking with the sole mindset of what’s in it for me? Many times, there is something you can easily do to help someone else. It helps establish a connection.

8. If you are shy and don’t know anyone at the event. Mix and mingle as best you can and find a friendly person with whom you can connect one-on-one; or if you can muster up the courage to introduce yourself, you’d be amazed the people you can meet.

9. Be open, you never know what can result from a networking event. Networking can take place anytime in a variety of settings. Relax, enjoy yourself and communicate clearly and effectively to maximize your networking opportunity.

10. Follow-up after the event with the people you connected with. Email or call them very soon after you meet to reaffirm and establish ongoing connections.