I wish you happy reading with the first chapter of the Networking Series, the content of which was born thanks to the contributions of Optimist Publications.
Networking Tips – Importance of Preparation Prior to Networking
Make sure you are not rushing networking preparations.Sometimes, it is the simplest details that keep you back from the most important meetings: like forgetting your umbrella on a rainy day.
In addition to physical preparations such as clothing and make-up, research relevant details in order to feel confident throughout the organization. However, keep a rein on that lurking desire to have everything under control —it is this feeling that will prevent you from looking sincere and comfortable.
In an environment where you’re not comfortable, you cannot leave a positive impression. Just rely on the piece of wisdom that you have done your best. And enjoy the rest.
What kind of preparations would be handy prior to attending an event?
Always determine what your motive behind participating in an event is. You may have more than one reasons for attending. Then, prioritize them so that you’ll know which one to focus on if they happen to conflict.
Imagine a meeting for which you promised yourself to get to know five new people. The moment you step in, you see an old friend whom you have not seen for ages, a group of people you don’t know, and a prominent businessman who may invest in your project. In such a scenario, prior preparation would help you with quick prioritization and time management.
If you’re like me, you’d probably walk towards your old friend to shake her hand, to say how glad you are to see her. Then, you’d beg her pardon to head towards a potential investor, friendly telling that the investor might be interested in hearing about your project.
What you’ll get out of introducing yourself to the investor should be a sincere and brief talk to exchange cards and take the first step for a one-on-one meeting in a more comfortable environment. After your chat with the investor, you can take your friend with you, if still available, and start getting to know new people.
Prior research on the event would be key. How were you informed of the organization? Organizations known and recommended by most people (who in this case are references!) are generally the most successful ones. Without a doubt they will outreach, and be announced to, you.
On the other hand are “silent” organizations which take place in the most unnoticed manner possible, whereas some events are publicly available, with no admission fee whatsoever. For some other organizations, you need to know an “insider” to get in. Some require both invitation and references, along with the necessity to pay a participation fee. To keep it short, organizations come in all shapes and sizes. To pick what is best for you, you need to be open, and attend as many diverse events as possible so that you'll figure out how to prioritize.
Ertugrul Belen & Optimist Publishing House