Networking is a very important aspect of life and essentially of the business world as well. It is how people connect with one another and how they can form important relationships in the future. Networking is about creating future possibilities for you to branch out whenever there is a chance, and it is a way for you to show people your true potential. Either as a company employee or a freelancer, networking is extremely important for you to get to know important people and build up connections which might eventually turn into beneficial assets.
Identify what network resources you already have
Sometimes when you’re looking for a contact you might not realize that you have a network connection already. Browse through your contact and see the potential of alliances that you have already. People have a tendency to overlook these relationships and don’t value them enough to use them in the future. Take a look at your current contacts and write down those that might serve you in the future, you never know when you’re going to need them.
Take for instance you are working as a sales representative. Having a good understanding of your network will help you plan how to engage with existing connections and broaden your circle. Doing this as a regular exercise will help you close more deals and get higher commissions.
You can network with anyone
Something they have to realize is that anyone can be the source of a network at any given time. So make sure and whenever you are socializing with someone you always think of them as a future prospect or a connection, you never know when you’re going to need a certain type of contact in a person and for that reason think that anyone that you need can serve as an Network asset.
Don’t expect people to come to you
Don’t expect people to just come up to you and talk to you for no reason. You need to give people enough reason for them to socialize with you, for that reason interact with others, and show interest in what other people do. You have to work hard to build those connections because they aren’t going to build themselves. Whenever you are at a networking event don’t just stand there and wait for someone to approach you, be the first one to interact with others and start building connections right away.
Let go of what doesn’t serve you
Whenever you are getting to know someone in order to have them as future contacts, make sure that they have something to contribute to your life. People will also look after you to be part of their networking list of people, so make sure that these people also serve as contacts for your own benefit. Some people won’t have anything to contribute for your life or your career and for that reason you need to let go of those contacts that don’t serve you.
Effort is Key
Make sure that people know that you are interested in them. Whenever you are socializing with someone demonstrate interest and show effort in the conversation and in the socialization process. You want to make sure that people are aware of your intentions right from the beginning.
