Networking tips

You can network at industry events, over the phone, through email and even on social platforms. The point is to make relevant contacts who can help you succeed in your role and improve your business. Wherever you can make a new contact is where you should be so if you want to make an impact in your industry and be one step ahead of your colleagues you need to start today.

Here is a guideline on the best way to network with people:

Mix and mingle. If you are invited to an industry event you need to be active. Don't stand in the corner eating the free food - get to know the other people around you, strike up a conversation with a stranger and always have your business card ready at hand. Give off an invitational presence instead of a confrontational image and some people might even be tempted to come and talk to you.

Go and talk to people on their own. Take advantage of the situation and speak to people who are seated on their own. You need to get them involved and make them interested in what you have to say so be kind, start talking about the event itself and introduce yourself and your company.

Build credibility and trust. Be honest and open with new people by showing them that you can be trusted. One way to do this is ask them how you can help them. Don't be concerned with making contacts just for your own benefit because if you help someone else they could introduce you to someone who can assist you with something in the same way. Be generous with helping others so that they remember you.

Do your homework. If you want to contact someone on LinkedIn, over the phone or at an event, do some research on their company and skills. Get to know what they do, who they are and what appeals to them.