Starting out in the professional or tech space can be challenging, especially when it comes to learning the best ways to optimize your networking abilities. In this article, we will delve deeper into the subject and provide you with a quick walkthrough to prepare you for your first or fiftieth networking event! 🏆

Networking is about YOU just as much as it’s about the people you’re looking to connect with. Figure out your goal. Are you looking for mentorship and guidance or tech-savvy peers to collaborate and help build ideas? Do you want to connect with employees at a desired company for future reference or simply to make friends within your field?

Maybe it’s all of the above!

Setting yourself up for success means setting the foundation for your desired outcome. Develop an elevator pitch or opening statement to ease into a conversation and specify what you are looking for out of your new connection.

Example Elevator Pitch:

Hi, my name is ________ and I'm interested in [Professional Field]. I'm looking to make connections with other professionals in the field to learn more about how to succeed in this industry and potentially collaborate on future projects!

It doesn’t have to be long or complicated. The shorter and more concise you keep it the more likely that your connection will be open to a discussion. Try out your pitch on family and friends to see an outsider's point of view, then tweak from there.

The stats are in 📢

Meeting new people can be hard and draining for less extroverted individuals or those not well-versed in small talk.

So, if you have trouble making new connections, don’t be afraid to reach out to those already in your circle! Take them out for coffee or lunch and listen to the stories they have from their own career journey.

Hearing things from a new perspective can open up a world of discussion and understanding. Ask if they can connect you to someone in your field or at one of your dream companies.

Pro tip: Think quality over quantity. Networking is not about trying to meet as many people as you can. It’s not a numbers game. Seek people who will make a difference in your life—and those you can inspire as well.

Networking can happen anywhere!

That’s why it’s important always to be open to new experiences and people.

A lot of newcomers in the networking world will attend networking events. Here you can meet new people, learn about your desired field, and practice your networking skills in real-time.

Have a goal in mind before attending to save both you and your new connections time. Are you looking for employment? Mentorship? Friendship? All of the above? Come with your goals, talking points, and a positive attitude, and making a new connection will be as easy as 1 2 3.

Don’t know where to find events? Utilize social media and web searches to your advantage!

Eventbrite, Googling Network Events, and LinkedIn will be your best friend in your journey to becoming a networking superstar!

Networking is a two-way street. Focusing on the person in front of you is as important as speaking for yourself and your achievements. Getting to know them, their stories, professional background, and shared interests will pay off even more!

Pro Tip: Take Notes! Don’t be afraid to take notes after speaking with someone. Write down their name and what company they work with. Note any important qualities, traits, or passions that you share to help you in future conversations.

Listen actively and emphatically, ask questions, and let your connection know that you’re listening. Don’t forget to ask for ways to connect on social media, email, or through LinkedIn.

You’ll learn a lot more and create an experience that both of you will walk away more excited for your next conversation!

So, you’ve got your goal in order, you’ve attended a networking event, and made some new connections! Congrats 🎉

…Now what?

The second most important thing to making a new connection is the follow-up. Not only did you meet a lot of new people but your connection did as well. If you took notes during your networking event then we suggest inputting this information into a database for easy reference.

Example:

Narumi Momose | Wotaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii | Office Worker | Loves romantic dramas and communication | Mutual connection: Hirotaka Nifuji

A connect who can provide insight into the hiring manager’s personality or preferences is a real asset. At some companies, employees receive a bonus if their referral is hired; if your friend is lucky enough to work for a company that rewards referrals, you’ll both have something to celebrate.

To network is a talent that can be easily learned and replicated. Once you understand how to effectively communicate you’ll see doors opening up right before your eyes!

Always stay true to yourself, be honest about your intentions, and you’ll find success in your networking journey!