Career Blog: Five Tenets to being an Effective Networker

Many people find networking to be difficult and a little intimidating which is perfectly understandable.  As a Boston career counselor, I absolutely agree that the number one thing required to be a good networker is just showing up.  That's half the battle, whether you're searching for a new job or looking to meet professional colleagues.  That being said, once you've accomplished that very important task, there are a few things that can make your networking significantly more effective.

1. Ask Questions.  Asking other people questions is key to developing relationships, and developing relationships is key to networking!  Besides that, it often happens that two people have a conversation and person A spends the entire conversation talking while person B asks questions.  In many cases, person A walks away feeling like the two people shared a great conversation.  What an easy way to make a good impression!  Of course, this is not to say that you shouldn't take the opportunity to speak as well.

2. Informal Elevator Speech.  Having a prepared elevator speech which succinctly explains who you are, what makes you great and what you're looking for is a good idea.  It's important to remember, however, that unless you have to give a formal introduction in front of the group, you never really want to stand and deliver your elevator speech from beginning to end to one person.  Instead, know the content of your elevator speech and give it out naturally in response to people's questions.

3. Offer Recommendations and Contacts.  The easiest, best way to make a connection with someone is to try to be helpful!  This is of course true at a networking event, as well as a general rule for life!  If you have a conversation about restaurants and you have a recommendation, share it.  If you know someone at their target company, perhaps you'd be willing to introduce them.

4. Don't Spend Too Much or Too Little Time.  Being the person who collects the most business cards at a networking event but doesn't really know anything about any of those people might as well have skipped the event.  On the other hand, if you spend the whole time talking to one person, you miss out on the opportunity to meet other great contacts.  If you make a good connection and want to talk more, follow up and invite them for coffee later on.

5. Exchange Contact Information and Follow Up.  Once you've had a good conversation, offer to exchange business cards (Yes, you should have business or personal cards!) and then don't forget to follow up.  You may not want to meet everyone for coffee, but a quick email to say, "nice to meet you," along with any recommendations or contacts can go a long way toward starting a fruitful relationship.