What is the truth about networking?
You will never see people standing alone at a YTM Business Networking event that I run!
“Do Networking Events Overwhelm You? You're Not Alone in the Struggle" – this sentiment echoes among many professionals who find networking events daunting rather than exhilarating. If you're someone who dreads the idea of small talk and superficial conversations, you're far from alone.
However, if you don't overcome your discomfort with networking, you might miss several key opportunities
Relationship building is the essence of networking and lies in building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships, not just accumulating contacts. It's about creating a meaningful connection that can provide support, advice, and opportunities over time.
Not long after I started YTM, I registered for a business breakfast. Knowing there would be 300-400 people attending, I took my husband along under the pretence the speaker would be of interest to him but looking back I really think I wanted the added support as I felt underconfident in this new arena. I had no reason to feel nervous. I had talked to and built relationships with loads of people from all walks of life. I had established and operated a craft market in the 1990s and organised hundreds of stallholders. I had negotiated with local council and marketed to the public. I had spoken at school events so I knew I could do it when I had to. All I had to do was apply the same set of skills.
Patience and consistency
Effective networking doesn't yield instant results. It requires patience and consistency and attending an event or meeting once, will rarely results in a “marriage” or perfect match. In fact if networking is your strategy for sale, be aware that only 5% or people are ready to buy immediately. So allow for regular engagement and follow-up to foster strong connections to see the true value of your network.
5 tips to remember
Quality Over Quantity: Having a few meaningful connections is more valuable than a vast network of superficial contacts. It's the strength and depth of your relationships that count, not just the number of people in your network.
Opportunities for Learning and Growth: Networking is not just about what you can gain from others. It's also an opportunity for personal and professional growth, offering diverse perspectives and ideas that can inspire and challenge you.
Not Just for Extroverts: Networking isn’t solely the domain of extroverts. Introverts can also excel by focusing on one-on-one or small group interactions, where they can engage more deeply and comfortably.
Communication is important in business and in life. It is a two-way process - where there is a giver and a receiver. Two-way communication only happens when we give and receive, sharing both roles with respect. Two-way communication builds relationships. One way communication breaks them down.
You need a strategy and set yourself, intentions and to plan, prepare and follow up
Within my business community, Your Time Matters, participants connect with others who share interest in building a business and are often facing similar challenges in business and life. Let me tell you there is rarely a story or problem we hear that has not been presented to us before… the problems just come with different dimensions. You are not alone. By hearing stories that are relatable we connect more freely and tend to offer advice and support in a way that doesn’t ordinarily happen at a business networking event.
To close, I would like to share a powerful reminder. You are networking all the time, you just may not be aware of it or using it as best you can. When you do become aware of how powerful networking is and how the way you connect is through conversation, then developing your communication skills is essential and being able to clearly articulate your value and ask better questions you have untold opportunity to explore, excite and expand your opportunities, personally and professionally.
Hello, I am Kerryn Powell, The Network Catalyst and founder of Your Time Matters and podcast host of Conversations and connections to amplify and inspire. I am a connection strategist, conversation starter who thrives on building communities and creating the right connections for those seeking strategic allies to make a positive impact through connection, contribution and community.
I draw on my diverse career portfolio, experience, skills and knowledge to encourage, support and empower business owners, professionals, teams and individuals to create true connection through authentic conversations that build real relationships, boost confidence and generate business and opportunities.
Since 2013, I have provided opportunity for more than 3000 business owners to engage in real life and online events through her business, Your Time Matters. BOOK a discovery call TODAY, and let’s have a conversation to see how I can help you and I invite you to follow me on my social media channels, too.