As we race out of summer and back into school, we’ll blink and the holiday party season will be upon us. I thought this would be a good time to give you some strategies for networking. I’m a really outgoing person, but even I feel that awkward uncomfortable sensation when I go somewhere where I know nobody. It’s difficult to mix and mingle when your heart is racing and your palms are sweaty.
But a networking event is a perfect opportunity to meet people in a relaxed and fun environment. So whether you’re headed to back-to-school night or a Chamber of Commerce Mixer, these ideas will help you feel more comfortable, have more fun and might even afford you an opportunity you never expected. Let’s take a deep breath and here we go:
1. Smile. This is the most obvious, yet I am continually surprised at how few people actually do it. Not only will it put others at ease when they look at you, but an open smile is a great way break the ice when you don’t know anyone.
2. Pretend you are the host. This mindset will help you be friendly to everyone. Think what you would do if all these people were in your house. You would do your best to make sure each person had a good time – and that they were introduced to each other, right? Do the same at the event and your comfort level will rise dramatically.
3. As you approach people, stick out your hand, smile again and say, “Hi, I’m (insert your first name here).” That’s it. Super easy. And most of the time, the person you approach will respond with their name. If they are in a group, even better. You can meet all of them.
4. Ask questions and listen! I can’t stress how important this is. Most people are too busy thinking of how to impress the person they are talking with to bother really listening. Listen for connections. Connections between yourself, people you know and the person speaking. Listen for ways you can connect people together.
5. Have your business cards handy. I usually put mine in a pocket so I’m not digging through my purse when it’s time to exchange cards. If you want the card of the person you’re talking with, ask. “Do you have a card?” Most people will be happy to give you their card, and then you can give them yours in exchange. Then for an extra bonus, tweet them after the party with a mention of how nice it was to meet them at the event. I find my tweets get a lot more response than emails these days.
Most of all…have fun. Meeting new people can be a real blessing to your life. When you remember that everyone in the room feels pretty much as awkward as you do, just by adjusting your mindset to be one of service (how can I connect others?) you’ll set yourself up for a positive and successful networking experience. I’ll be trying these tips myself as I head to the the Podcast Movement Conference in Dallas this week. I’ll let you know how they work. 🙂
Question: How do you overcome nerves when you are in a new environment? What are your best strategies? I’d love to hear your tips and suggestions!