By Naledi Mokoena
In today’s hyper competitive business landscape, building lasting long-term professional relationships and networking is imperative in order to ensure a successful career. In order to expand your professional network, gain valuable insights and perspectives, through networking.
According to Michael Page , these are the 10 advantages of networking:
Enhance your personal profile
Build rapport with potential clients
Source ideas through network
Acquire knowledge about business techniques
Build personal brand
Gain career guidance and support
Develops self confidence
Exposure to new opportunities
In person responses
Gain deeper insights
Effective networking allows leaders to push the boundaries of building professional relationships, like never before. It is advisable to apply the fundamentals of good communication when networking to ensure a positive outcome. Non-verbal communication is just as important as verbal communication. According to leadership success non-verbal communication refers to the messages behind our words. These include tone of voice, body language, eye contact and facial expressions. Moreover,Professor emeritus of psychology at the University of California Albert Mehrabian’s research findings claim 93 percent of communication is non-verbal. You can say the same word using a different tone of voice, changing the entire meaning of a word.
5 ways C-suites network effectively
Be prepared
Preparation is key when it comes to networking effectively. In order to enhance opportunities, be thoroughly prepared with your presentation and resources. Make sure you arrive polished, hand out business cards, have a rehearsed pitch and research key clients. In addition prior knowledge will create informed engagement and allow impromptu follow up questions. Overall being prepared creates a lasting impression to build rapport and may leave a lasting impression.
Set clear goals
Define your goals from the onset, prior to meeting potential clients in order to network from a position of knowledge to approach clients. This may minimise engaging with irreverent business associates, ultimately wasting both of your time. Predetermined goals will help you identify the most relevant contacts, organisation or opportunities.
Establish trust and credibility
Showcase your expertise and leadership qualities by building your brand. Consider attending industry events, online sessions and conferences, to facilitate interaction with other thought leaders. Perhaps through these networking opportunities, you may earn respect, recognition as well as trust by paving the way for future collaboration with other industry giants.
Join a think tank
Two heads are better than one. When faced with complex challenges, lead the conversation towards a solution by approaching diverse experts knowledgeable in the field in order to reach a breakthrough.
Follow up with new contacts
After a productive session of networking, maintain new relationships by following up as promptly as possible. It’s imperative not to let the conversation die there, and using e-meet platforms helps keep up the momentum.
