The Art of Conversation
Conversation underpins networking….When you say networking, people cringe as it’s a term that people immediately associate with having to approach people and sell their business, and ironically this is where it all goes wrong….
Imagine you are at an event, someone approaches you and immediately launches into promoting their service or product. They then give you their card and waltz off to find someone else and you are left wondering who they are.
Exactly, it doesn't work does it, so you shouldn't do it either. Networking isn't purely about selling your business, it's about conversation.
If you can get your ahead around this, you will put yourself in a space where it feels more natural. In an art form...
It's about asking someone what they do and what brought them to the event, in return they should ask about you and your business (.. if they don't converse with you, then move on to the next!)....if the conversation flows you can exchange knowledge, ideas, contacts and explore ways to work together.
Networking is a valuable way to build relationships with people through conversation. It shouldn't be a purpose driven with specific objectives to hand out as many business cards as possible; in fact it's the opposite. Your purpose should be focussed on talking to a fewer number of people in more depth, establishing rapport and building good relationships; the outcomes will be much greater.
Of course, it is likely that you will go to events with an intention to meet individuals working in certain areas, e.g. you may need a book keeper, or you might want to partner with some on running events? To ensure you meet the right people make sure you approach the network leaders and tell them who you'd like to meet. This way they can introduce you to the right people, which will add significant value to your networking experience.
Through Striding Out we regularly connect and introduce people at networking events and we have seen business relationships and partnerships form as a result.
Heather Wilkinson, Chair, Business Coach and Founder of www.stridingout.co.uk
