Discover how to build Meaningful Connections and expand your business network with these strategies.
Building Meaningful Connections: The Art of Networking
Networking is critical for any company owner or professional who wants to excel in their field.
Based on LinkedIn's research, 85% of all positions are filled through networking, while a separate poll indicated that 70% of workers feel networking is critical to career success.
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Successful networking may lead to more employment prospects, better job performance, and higher job satisfaction. But it's not just about handing out business cards or collecting LinkedIn connections. It's about building meaningful relationships that can help you grow professionally and personally.
So, how do you network effectively? Here are some tips:
- Be Genuine: People are more likely to trust and like those who they perceive to be authentic and genuine, according to a study by psychologist Robert Cialdini. Keith Ferrazzi's book "Never Eat Alone" emphasizes the importance of being authentic and building real relationships based on common interests and values. According to Cialdini, people are more likely to trust and like those who they perceive to be authentic and genuine.
- Be Prepared: Susan RoAne's book "How to Work a Room" emphasizes the importance of doing research before attending a networking event. This involves deciding who you want to meet, studying their background and hobbies, and having questions ready to ask. Being well-prepared will allow you to make a good first impression and connect with the person you're speaking with.
- Be Engaging: Active listening is essential for engaging with others in networking situations. Robert Cialdini's book "Influence" discusses the power of listening as a tool for building rapport and trust. Additionally, asking open-ended questions and sharing your own experiences can help keep the conversation flowing and create a memorable interaction. Offer help and resources whenever possible and follow up after the event to continue the conversation.
- Be Visible: Attending networking events, joining professional organizations, and volunteering in your community can help you become more visible and increase your opportunities for making meaningful connections. Devora Zack's book "Networking for People Who Hate Networking" emphasizes the importance of finding the right networking groups that align with your interests and goals. This can lead to more productive and fulfilling networking experiences.
- Be Strategic: Bob Beaudine's book "The Power of Who" emphasizes the importance of building a network of people who can help achieve goals. This means being strategic in networking efforts and identifying individuals with the expertise, connections, or resources needed to succeed. Building a strong network can help open doors and create opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.
- Be Patient: Building a strong network takes time and effort, so it's important to be patient and persistent. Darren Hardy's book "The Compound Effect" discusses the power of consistency and small, incremental actions in achieving long-term success. Keeping in touch with contacts regularly and looking for ways to add value to their lives and businesses can help build a strong and lasting network.
There are various research and success stories that might motivate and guide your networking efforts in addition to these ideas. According to Harvard Business Review research, great networkers are good at developing diversified networks that include people from various backgrounds, opinions, and experiences. This variety may provide you with fresh ideas, resources, and possibilities that you would not have discovered otherwise.
Richard Branson, the creator of Virgin Group, is another success tale. Branson is well-known for his vast network of contacts, which he has exploited to develop his corporate empire. He argues in his memoirs that "success in business is all about making connections," and he credits much of his success to his ability to network successfully.
Overall, networking is a critical skill that can help you achieve your career and business goals. By being genuine, prepared, engaging, visible, strategic, and patient, you can build meaningful connections that will help you grow and succeed. So, go out there and start networking today!
This post first appeared on Deimar - Business Tips And Strategies For Entrepre, please read the originial post: here
