5 Golden Rules when Networking

The idea to this post appeared during the event “Connects frukost”, which I participated in on the 5^th of September 2016. The event is gathering entrepreneurs, investors and advisors for some non-formal networking.

With a background in a non-profit organization, I’ve come upon a number of situations requiring mingling and networking. The survival of the organization was dependent on sponsorship, which mainly originated from business connections made at events.

The mission of most entrepreneur events, with networking as theme, is to combine different competencies and experiences. The exchange should, in some way, be equivalent seen to the value for the participants. My experience is though that the participants can be divided in two main groups: The ones most of the participants wish to speak to, and those who need to take actions to make an impression. As an entrepreneur with an innovation, not yet famous to the critical mass, you probably belong to the second group. Even as highly socially skilled, constantly seeking contact is exhausting. Regardless, networking events are brilliant opportunities to present your idea, make connections, and to practice your elevator pitch.

Today I want to share my personal golden rules when networking:

Golden rule # 1 – Dare to stand alone

It’s undoubtedly uncomfortable to stand alone, seeking contact when everyone else is participating in discussions. But instead of seeking your coworker or putting out your phone, try to wait it out. Sooner or later some are rounding up their conversation, giving you the opportunity to introduce yourself – or for them to approach you.

Golden rule # 2 – Think of what you can give, instead of what you can get

As passionate and driven, it is easy to see what you can get out of new business relations. More experienced networkers can easily spot those who preferably pitch and talk about their own idea for hours, rather than discuss a potential cooperation. Try to adapt an approach focusing on “what’s in it” for the person you are talking to.

Golden rule # 3 – Keep develop your elevator pitch

As any other activity, you get rusty in pitching and networking. The first pitch of the night is never as good as the following. Try to be attentive to the reaction of the other party, when does he get bored, curious, confused? Be dynamic and, when needed, change the content during the event! See it as a brilliant opportunity to “trial and error” your way to an even better pitch!

Golden rule # 4 – Don’t despair

As said before, networking and repetitively trying to sell in your idea could be exhausting. But don’t despair! Keep in mind that if at least one out of the 20, 50 or maybe 100 you talk to leads to new perspective on your idea, cooperation or a business relation, it is totally worth it! Maybe the next person you talk to is the one you really want to meet?

Golden rule # 5 – Write key words on every business card you receive

And the last – but absolutely not the least – golden rule. During or after the networking, depending on its length, make sure to write done some key words on the business cards you received. You think you will remember – but honestly, you won’t (not if you were networking diligent enough J). Topics you discussed, if you were to make contact a certain time at the year, or just something non-business related making it easier for you to take up contact later.

These were my list of (so far) collected golden rules. Maybe you have some to share with me? Let me know in the comments below!