Jo Krause, Senior Manager at Six Degrees Executive has put together some of the Dos and Don’ts of how to network and take advantage of these opportunities.
Ask questions. Have a few good ones ready to go, and make sure that you’re an active listener. Some of these questions could include:
Networking isn’t solely about your career path, it’s about forming connections with people. If the conversation goes off topic, don’t try to steer the ship too much – organic connections will be remembered.
A good handshake and your first and last name. Wait for the other person to respond prior to sharing more about yourself – current/previous work and your position. This helps to contextualise where you are in your career, and where you can fit into that person.
Although everyone has their phones on them, business cards are still a professional and proper way to connect with people. Don’t forget them.
If you have mentioned to someone that you should catch up over, have a quick coffee, it’s important to follow this up with that person. Sticking to your word is a great foundation to building these relationships, and sends out the signal that you’re true to your word.
Part of being a good networker, and effective in social occasions, is understanding the end of a conversation. Gracefully excusing yourself is perfectly acceptable.