North Mondays Series: Episode 54

Five Easy Steps to Improve Your Networking Skills

To go far in business and in life, it is a no-brainer that you need people! Networking is you developing your people skills and it is an essential skill in today’s professional world.

Whether you’re looking to advance your career, grow your business, or simply expand your circle of contacts, effective networking can open doors to new opportunities. However, for many people, the thought of networking can be intimidating and tedious. The good news is that becoming better at networking doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, by following just a few simple steps, you can significantly improve your networking skills and build valuable connections. Let’s get you started!

1. Be Genuine and Authentic: The foundation of successful networking lies in building genuine relationships. Instead of approaching networking as a transactional exchange, focus on building authentic connections with others. You are likely to meet your kind of “vibe” when you are yourself. Be yourself, show genuine interest in others, and be willing to share your own experiences and expertise. Authenticity breeds trust, and people are more likely to connect with you if they feel that you are genuine.

2. Listen More Than You Talk: One of the most common networking mistakes is dominating the conversation. Instead of focusing on selling yourself or your ideas, take the time to listen to what others have to say. Ask open-ended questions, show interest in their perspectives, and be attentive to their needs and challenges. By being a good listener, you not only make others feel valued but also gain valuable insights that can help you forge meaningful connections.

3. Offer Value and Help Others: Networking is not just about what you can get; it’s also about what you can give. Look for ways to offer value and help others without expecting anything in return. Whether it’s sharing useful resources, offering advice, or making introductions, being generous with your time and expertise can leave a lasting impression on others. Remember, networking is a two-way street, and by giving freely, you’re more likely to receive in return.

4. Follow Up and Stay Connected: Building relationships takes time and effort, and it doesn’t end after the initial introduction. Make sure to follow up with the people you meet and stay connected with them over time. Send a personalized email or LinkedIn message to express your appreciation for the conversation and suggest ways to stay in touch. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, attending industry events together, or simply keeping each other updated on your progress, staying connected helps nurture relationships and keeps them alive.

5. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Finally, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there. Networking often involves meeting new people and engaging in unfamiliar situations, which can feel daunting at times. However, growth and opportunities lie beyond the boundaries of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to attend networking events, join professional groups, or reach out to individuals you admire. The more you practice networking, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.

Improving your networking skills doesn’t have to be complex. Be intentional about the process. Sitting by yourself or with familiar faces and sipping that wine will not increase your social network, by following these five easy steps — being genuine, listening more than you talk, offering value, following up, and stepping out of your comfort zone — you can become a better networker and forge meaningful connections that can benefit you both personally and professionally. Happy networking!