Comments on: Why you shouldn’t worry if networking makes you timid

By: Fiona

Fiona — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:58:01 +0000

Hi Kate – looking forward to hearing all the shocking details. I hope it’ll be something truly scandalous.

Thanks for that tip Peter. What your best line for ending a conversation? I tend to say ‘Well it was nice to meet you. Hope to see you again.’

Hi Rob, I like your ripples metaphor too. That’s the fun part about any marketing activity; you never quite know what results you’re going to get but you’ll get something if you apply yourself consistently! … In the unlucky situation of all the groups being ‘closed’ I guess you just head for the bar and wait a few minutes…?

Happy networking everyone. Fiona x

By: Rob

Rob — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:08:16 +0000

All good stuff, Fiona. You liken networking to chucking wild seeds around; I’ve always thought of it as throwing stones in a pond. The ripples will reach somebody but maybe not be the person you expect. The rule is: activity gets results.
However, it can be difficult entering a room where all the groups appear to be ‘closed’ and you have to break in somewhere. You feel such a lemon watching everybody connecting while you are on the outside.

By: Peter T

Peter T — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 08:56:25 +0000

#4 is very true and I’ve learnt to avoid going with the intention of getting as many people as possible to book me for training, buy my product, ask for a business card, etc. I know you’re a big fan of the Tai Chi principle of not pushing too hard and I think this is true of networking.

For those who don’t exactly relish the prospect of networking events here’s my Tip Number 5: Don’t latch on to the first familiar/friendly face you come across and cling to them for dear life for the duration of the event. Networking is about circulating. So much though you might want to stay in your comfort zone, be prepared to move on.

By: kate m

kate m — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 00:16:10 +0000

Scheduled events aren’t my favourite form of networking (I’ve found online activity, friends of friends, old work and university contacts more useful). But they have their uses – you can show your enthusiasm for particular projects and get your face seen.

Approaching new people doesn’t phase me (I’m not shy). I think the best strategy is to attend the things you have a genuine interest in rather than go for no other reason than to network. It is very hard to form a connection with somebody if you are bored out of your mind. Fortunately I’ve not had any dreadful experiences – although there were some fairly shocking things going on at a national magazine event I attended a few years ago – might have to keep those for when I see you in person!

Sadly I have been guilty of your #2 turn-off in the past; I blame youth and inexperience. I promise I’m much better behaved now.