WCHY
WMMM
WOLX
Balance Madison
CareersFinance_05_617x130.jpg

Poll

The Art Of Networking

For many people, one of the things they find most intimidating about networking is making conversation with others.  Here are some strategies to help you be your best.



Have your personal tag line ready: Your personal tag line is how you introduce yourself. It’s important that your tag line is clear, compelling and concise as it is your only chance to make a strong first impression.
The key is to really think about the answer to the dreaded question “So, what you do?” and compose an answer that is relevant yet original. Avoid industry jargon or long, overly technical explanations as you will lose people’s attention.


Focus on the value you bring – not the job title and company printed on your business card. Once you have a tag line, you must rehearse it to the point that it flows naturally.  Practice makes perfect, it will help you really give that relevant information.

Ask open-ended questions: When in conversation, your goal should be to draw the other person out and to learn about them, their work and their life.


Asking interesting, even provocative questions they haven't already been asked a million times during the event can set you apart.  Questions can be professional or personal, as long as they are relevant and appropriate.  Often business connections are made from similarities in personal lives.  Your ultimate challenge is to be unique and engaging.  
Try these sample questions: 
• “What do you like best about your profession/job?”
• “If you were going to totally switch careers, what would you do?”
• “How long have you lived in (your city)?”
• “Do you have any fun plans for the summer?”



Pay attention: Conversation is a give and take, talking and listening.  Many people don't pay attention enough when engaging in a conversation. It's easy to go on automatic pilot when answering the same basic questions and even let your mind wander when the other person is talking.  If you pay close attention you will likely find common ground and you will be able to drive the conversation. 
Watch your body language.  Maintain eye contact, don't fidget, smile and not at appropriate moments.

Stay positive:  This is a chance for you to make a terrific impression by being upbeat, regardless of your personal or professional situation. By bringing people up, instead of down, you are more likely to have longer, more meaningful conversations. 

Know when to say when: Occasional awkward pauses will certainly occur in your conversations. The key to success is knowing how to handle these pauses by taking control of the situation.


If you have exhausted a particular topic, either bring up a new subject with a good question or use the opportunity to wrap up the encounter and move on.  You can end a conversation by simply saying, “It was so nice talking to you,” offering your business card and asking for theirs.


Source: Marny Lifshen