SMPS CT Blog

“I Can Just Show Up and ‘Wing It'" – 3 Myths About Networking

Posted by Marta Dabrowski on Aug. 24, 2021  /  Guest Blog, Professional Development  /  Subscribe 0

By: Gilda Bonanno

Networking (in person and virtual) is a vital part of your career and business development strategy. Here are 3 networking myths that can interfere with your ability to be an effective networker:

1. I can just show up and “wing” it

If you are unprepared when you attend a networking event, you may not communicate as effectively as you want to. Here’s how to prepare your networking strategy:

• Prepare a clear, concise introduction and message that is relevant to the people you will meet at this particular event.

• Practice saying your introduction and message with a smile, while making eye contact and maintaining good body language.

• Prepare a few questions to ask and topics to discuss that will make sense to the people you expect to meet.

2. I have to go to every networking event

Networking takes time. Attend a networking event only if:

• It meets your criteria of target market, potential clients or people who can help you meet your goals, or if the information presented will be useful to you. (For example, if you work for a company, go to events where you can meet people or gather information that will help your professional development and career.)

• You can muster the required positive energy and enthusiasm to talk about your business or job and execute the networking strategy you’ve prepared.

Lackluster, low-energy networking will interfere with your efforts to develop a strong personal brand and build a solid network (and reinforce any negative feelings you might have about networking being ineffective).

3. My goal is to hand out as many business cards as possible

I once was given a business card by someone at a networking event while I was in the restroom washing my hands. She walked in, smiled, put it next to the sink (since my hands were wet) and left the room. You can guess what I did with the card. Don’t make the same mistake.

• Only give cards to someone you’ve actually had a conversation with, who might be a good prospect or partner (where you can be of mutual benefit).

• If you don’t want to wait until someone asks for your card, ask permission to give them your card and provide suggestions for potential collaboration.

• Don’t just collect a lot of business cards that will end up collecting dust on your desk – schedule time to follow up with people as soon as possible after the event.

Debunking these networking myths and implementing these ideas will enable you to become a successful networker, create a strong personal brand and build vibrant connections with clients and colleagues.

GILDA BONANNO helps you transform your communication and leadership skills so you can have more confidence, influence and success. She has worked with leading organizations, including GE, Travelers, Praxair, Assa Abloy, Wells Fargo and Yale University, on four continents from Chicago to Shanghai and Rio to Rome.

Website: www.gildabonanno.com
Videos: www.youtube.com/user/GildaBonanno (more than 1.5 million views)
LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/gildabonanno/

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