Are you wondering how to network with people?
It’s a question a lot of business owners and career professionals find themselves asking. Almost 60% of the United States workforce is working from home. Sometimes not visiting the office in person can make staying in touch difficult.
However, the truth is that networking is more than simply reaching out to people. It’s also about growing and getting inspired about your purpose.
By networking wisely, you can meet new people who can help your career or business. You can also learn new things and get exposed to new opportunities.
Keep reading to learn the best tips for networking online and in person.
How to Network With People Online
Start with social media sites when you’re looking into how to network with people online. They open you up to a world of good connections and are a great way to build an online presence.
For instance, social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are great for connecting with professionals in your field and building relationships. Keep your posts consistent, relevant, and engaging.
Also, be sure to target the correct type of audience. You can see more tips here on how to find your audience.
Blogging Tips
Blogging is also great for connecting with others who share your interests. You can build a following of like-minded individuals by writing quality blog posts and engaging with other bloggers in the comments.
One of the best ways to keep your blog posts engaging is by using high-quality photos. You can sign up for a photo service or try taking the photos yourself. As long as the images are colorful and captivating, you’ll have an easier time reaching your audience.
You can also use those same photos to promote yourself on social media platforms. By networking online, you can make valuable connections that can help you advance your career.
Forum Tips
Forums are another great way to connect with others who share your interests. By participating in forum discussions, you can learn from others and establish yourself as an expert in your field.
In-Person Networking
What about in-person networking? Attending conferences, trade shows, and networking mixers can also help you meet new people in your field.
You can also connect with potential contacts through friends and acquaintances. If you know someone who works in an area that interests you, ask if they would be willing to introduce you to some of their colleagues.
When looking for trade shows, keep your eyes open for the correct type of events. After all, you don’t want to waste your time or money attending workshops that aren’t going to connect you with the right individuals.
How can you be sure you’re signing up for the correct type of event? If you’re in an industry like real estate, finding relative events will probably be easy.
But what about if you’re in a more niche field? In that case, you can use online directories to find out about upcoming events.
Once you’ve found an event that looks promising, research the speakers and attendees list. This will give you a better idea of whether or not the conference is right for you.
When networking in person, always remember to bring your business cards. You never know when you will meet someone who could be a valuable connection.
Tips for Following Up
Making a good impression at a networking event is only half the battle. Once you’ve made those all-important connections, it’s essential to follow up in a way that will solidify the relationship and keep you top of mind. The best way to do this is to send a quick email or connect on social media.
Sometimes the simplest things help preserve the best relationships. Be thoughtful. For instance, in your email, mention something specific that you discussed with the person to make it personal.
For example, if you’re a travel writer and you meet someone who just got back from a fantastic trip, mention that you’d love to hear their story. Remember, social media is also a great way to stay in touch, and it’s even easier to connect with people who share your interests.
So, if you meet someone at a networking event who shares your passion for cooking, be sure to add them on Facebook or Instagram. By following up after meeting someone, you’ll show that you’re interested in maintaining the relationship – which is essential for networking success.
Guarantee Networking Success
Networking can be a great way to meet new people and advance your career. However, there are some things you should avoid doing if you want to make a good impression.
First, be sure to dress appropriately for the event. You don’t want to stand out for the wrong reasons! Second, don’t forget your manners. Introduce yourself to people, shake hands, and make conversation.
Third, don’t monopolize the conversation. Listen as much as you talk, and you’ll soon find that people are more interested in your words. Finally, don’t be afraid to follow up.
Exchange business cards with the people you meet, and send a quick email or LinkedIn message afterward to stay in touch. By following these simple tips, you’ll be sure to make a positive impression the next time you network!
Networking the Bottom Line
As you can see, a lot goes into learning how to network with people. First, you have to find relevant events and then verify that they’ll be worth your time. Once you find a great place to start networking, put your best foot forward. Always dress appropriately, and when using photos online, ensure they’re engaging.
By following the tips in this article, you’ll be well on your way to growing your professional and social circle. If you’d like more tips to advance your personal and professional life, we’d love to help.
Take a look around the rest of our website for more advice. You can always read another one of our blogs too.
