Networking Tips: How to Build Meaningful Connections
““Your network is your net worth””
We had to pull this quote from our top advice and quotes episode of Hashtag Managed.
Being online business owners and social media managers ourselves at Social Savvy, our industry heavily relies on connections! Building meaningful connections through networking can significantly enhance not only your professional career but also your personal life.
Why Networking is Important
Why do I need a network? Here are three reasons, with stories of why you need a network around you!
Support System
At many points of your career, you'll run across bumps in the road. When a college connection reached out to me on LinkedIn with a social media issue she ran into, we were able to solve it together and now we constantly bounce questions off each other that we run into. It's nice to have a support system when you need advice, have questions, or just need to vent to someone who gets it.
Business Besties
Our podcast co-hosts are the perfect story to live up to this, Maddie + Jess found each other networking online seven years ago and now host a whole podcast channel together years later! Photoshoots, weekly podcast episodes, and even meeting IRL. Online connections can turn into so many opportunities and even friendships in the long run.
Business!!!
Whenever I talk about networking, I always share this example! The realtor team we purchased our house with couldn't be more different because of their networking abilities - one realtor follows up frequently and asks how everything is with the home, the other never really reached out after the keys were handed over. Long story short, there was an accident down the street from us that appeared on local news. The one realtor, followed up with us and ensure that everything was okay with us after seeing the news. The other also contacted us short after, but did not mention anything about the accident (which was fine if they didn't see it!), but instead proceed to tell us about an appliance sale (even though the home had all new appliances), and then asked us how everything was going...guess who we have recommend to our friends also looking for homes and who we didn't recommend? While this is a dramatic example, your network can be a great referral system, and/or customers.
Let's take a step back and talk about what the journey of networking looks like. Here are some effective tips to help you build and maintain these valuable relationships:
1. Be Authentic
You should come into networking with the mindset of selling. You should come in with the mindset of genuinely making a connection. Show genuine interest in others by asking questions and actively listening. People appreciate when you are truly interested in their stories and experiences! Be yourself and treat it like a typical conversation, even if you have your professional cap on.
2. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch
If you are a fellow rambler, this is for you. Even if you're not trying to close a sale, you should always have a shark tank pitch in the back of your mind so you can confidently tell people about your business or role when asked. This should be a concise, but descriptive introduction that highlights who you are, what you do, and what you’re passionate about.
3. Utilize Online Platforms
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for professional networking! Maintain an up-to-date LinkedIn profile and actively engage with your network by sharing content, commenting on posts, and joining relevant groups. You can go beyond LinkedIn, too. Use platforms like Facebook groups, Instagram, or industry-specific forums to connect with like-minded individuals and participate in discussions.
Shameless plug, if you're a social media manager, join our networking Facebook Group!
4. Attend Networking Events
Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to your field to meet people with similar interests and goals. We don't believe in competition over here! Even people who hold similar roles or are involved in the same industry can become a great community. Read our blog on why you should build relationships with people who are your "competitors."
5. Offer Value
Offer your expertise and insights to help others solve problems or achieve their goals. A small flavor or piece of advice can be exactly what your networking game needs. Plus, what goes around comes around, maybe they can help you with something in return in the future, if the need arises.
6. Follow Up
We all have that one friend who texts the group chat once every three months...don't be that friend in your network! After meeting someone new, follow up within a few days with a personalized message. Mention something specific from your conversation to jog their memory, especially with in-person events as information overload can affect things. Beyond that, regularly check in with your contacts through emails, messages, or social media interactions to maintain and strengthen the relationship.
7. Join Professional Organizations
Become a member of professional organizations related to your field to access exclusive networking opportunities and resources. Take on volunteer roles within these organizations to increase your visibility and build deeper connections.
8. Attend Social Events
Social events like dinners, happy hours, or hobby-related gatherings can provide a relaxed environment to build connections, too! Don't be afraid to talk about your business or find similarities.
9. Develop Your Soft Skills
Your conversational skills will make all the difference in your life. Even if you aren't typically a small talker or a naturally extroverted personality, you can still become a powerful conversationalist and develop your soft skills. Practice with friends, practice in writing!
10. Be Consistent
Consistently engage with your network by sharing updates, congratulating achievements, and commenting on their posts. Building meaningful connections takes time. Be patient and persistent in nurturing your relationships.
By incorporating these tips into your networking efforts, you’ll be well on your way to building a meaningful community!
