Tag: Networking events

Accepting LinkedIn invites from strangers? It’s a maybe for me. First, do I know them? If not, are they connected to people I know? No again? Then do we share interests? If they pass my vibe check, sure, we connect. But if they scream “spam alert,” it’s a no-go. Don’t stress too much about “malicious” folks; they can find you elsewhere anyway.

Two business cards for separate gigs? No biggie. Just don’t mix ’em up and confuse folks. If the convo goes deeper, toss ’em your other card. Like, if they’re into morning meetups, hit ’em with your breakfast club card. Need better speaking skills? Pass the Toastmasters one. Keep it relevant, keep it clear.

Networking’s not just schmoozing at events; it’s a mix of activities from research to providing value. But don’t forget, if all you’re doing is networking, you’re ignoring other parts of running your business. It’s all about balance. Too much networking? Yeah, it’s possible if it gets in the way of actually doing your job.

Being outgoing doesn’t mean you’re good at networking. Trust me, networking needs strategy and purpose, not just chit-chat. Among business pros, you’ve got all types: introverts, extroverts, the shy, the bold. Just ’cause you like to talk doesn’t make you a networking pro. It’s a skill, and not everyone’s got it down.

Coffee chats, whether in academia or business, aim to find common ground for possible collaboration. In 60 minutes, you can gauge if you click and plan a follow-up. To shine in conversation, ask good questions and listen more than you talk. It keeps the vibe comfortable and opens doors for future opportunities.

The best self-introduction is one you’re comfortable with and suits the situation. From business meetups to social gatherings, tailor your intro to fit. Aim for a quick snapshot that sparks curiosity, inviting questions and deeper conversation. Having multiple versions ready to go helps you adapt on the fly, making you a networking pro.