How to network effectively in 2021
For most people, making connections and keeping ties with the people who support them throughout their careers can be the key to success. By efficiently creating a network of colleagues, business associates, and others, you may rely on your network to assist you anytime you need a new customer, a new job, or to further improve your abilities.
When working for an important company as an intern, the best advice anyone can receive is to network as much as possible. Make use of the access you’ve been given and go out of your way to meet other smart people and develop a network of connections so that when you leave (or if they go first), you’ll have a basis for a relationship.
However, networking entails much more than simply exchanging business cards. It’s all about giving and taking, providing value, and staying in touch. Good news: it is a skill that anyone can learn; all it takes is practice. And, while networking takes time, it’s better to get started now because you never know when you’ll need it.
Let’s get started!
- Offline Networking: Business Cards
Clients collect more than just contact information when they receive a business card. Exchanging these cards involves a lot of handshakes. Both sides express gratitude and greetings to one another.
A well-designed and appealing business card attracts the eye and creates a positive image of a company. A corporate logo, tastefully displayed company information, and the use of the appropriate brand colors and typography all contribute to the card’s professional appearance. It allows customers to recognize a brand. And, if you don’t have one, you can easily create them using a reliable business card maker.
- Take Advantage of Social Media
It’s easy to be better acquainted with important connections on social media without the pressure of face-to-face encounters. Search for individuals with similar interests or important contacts you’d like to get to know better within your social media platforms. By responding to a comment they make or commenting on a link they post, you can initiate a discussion with them, and in return, they will expect you to do the same. Then, if you meet in person, you already have a basis for a relationship.
- Review your Resume
Asking colleagues with whom you are comfortable, examining your CV, and providing input on enhancing it is another simple but efficient approach to network during a job hunt. This method is beneficial for a variety of reasons. They will learn about your job experience, previous titles, ambitions, and many other things about you when examining your CV. They could recall a firm or a link that your background would be ideal for.
- Ready to Mingle
Make an effort to get out there. Take up a new hobby, such as golf or cooking, to meet new people who share your interests. If you’re stumped for ideas, Groupon might be able to help. You could also want to look into where similar-minded folks like yourself spend their time. As you may be aware, every city has pubs, coffee shops, and restaurants that appeal to specific demographics. Find out where all the PR experts congregate, for example, if you work in PR. Remember that in social situations, people are more comfortable. Therefore, it’s one of the greatest times to strike up a discussion. Volunteering or attending a fundraiser are two more fantastic ways to network.
- Build a Relationship
Don’t seek help from someone you have just met. You must first get to know them and devote time and effort to developing the friendship.
After you’ve exchanged contact information, stay in touch regularly. If they’re in town, invite them to lunch. And also, you may leave a comment on their most recent blog article. Demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in keeping the connection going. You may ask for a favor when you’re comfortable with each other and know they’ll aid you if they can.
- Maintain and Sustain your Network
Maintain your network after it’s up and running. From time to time, reconnect with your connections. Use a cause to call out and say “hello” if one’s job title changes on LinkedIn or if a contact’s name appears in the news.
It’s not what you know, it’s who you know — make sure that the people you know remember you.
Our thoughts…
Having good relationships is the foundation of a successful business. On the other hand, good connections don’t just appear out of nowhere; They are sought after, built, and nourished. To put it another way, networking is essential.
Put in the time and effort, and you’ll quickly find yourself building the long-term partnerships that will push your company forward.