Networking: 9 Tips To Remember

I'm not an expert in networking, by any means. That said, I have been to many, many networking events. It's more than likely a function of my Woo nature.  Woo stands for winning others over, a StrengthsFinder theme in my Top 5. It's defined as someone who "enjoys the challenge of meeting new people and getting them to like you. Strangers are rarely intimidating to you. On the contrary, strangers can be energizing." It's different than just being an extrovert, which I happen to be as well. So, strangers out there... don't get me talking! 

No two networking events are alike, but there are general themes that run through all of them. There are also some tips I've picked up along my way in the networking circles. These aren't in order of importance, and some are more important than others depending on the dynamics of the group. 

1.  Set a goal for the event. The number one complaint I hear from people is that "they're busy", so with that in mind you don't have time to waste. It doesn't need to be a number-driven goal, like how many people you meet or how many business cards you leave with. If it's your first event, set a goal to not overdue it and join groups of people to watch how this networking group's members interact with each other. If you're not comfortable starting up a conversation on your own, the next tip will help with that.
2. Bring a friend. It helps to have someone you already know at the event, especially if you're shy. Make sure you don't just talk to each other though, or that's just a friend hang. Choosing the friend that will join you needs to be done carefully, as they need to know what to share and what not to. My networking friends are different than my beer-drinking buddies. One of my networking friends told me that her tip she used was to split up with the friend initially upon arrival, then reconvene later. I'd call this more of an "advanced" level move of networking for those new to the scene, but it will challenge you to talk to strangers rather than stay in your comfort zone with your friend the whole time. Every so often, shoot that friend a look to make sure they're not looking your direction for a lifeline. Ask them to do the same.
3. Know your audience and be self-aware. Although I've never gone to speed dating, I would imagine networking events are the platonic version. You are usually in 1-on-1 or small group settings, talking about yourself and listening to others tell you their highlights. I share this parallel to illustrate that there will be great conversations and awkward interactions. So, you need to know when to bail on a conversation or know when it's important to bear through it because you need the connection this individual provides. Pay attention to how much you're talking about yourself, and remember to ask the other person about themselves. Active listening skills need to be applied, so eye contact, lean in, and remember that your responses need to show them you heard what they said. This will help you not come across as self-centered, even if what that person is talking about is not your thing. 
4. Drink or don't drink. Drinking is a common occurrence at networking events. That being said, know your limits. Networking events should be treated as an extension of the workplace - a fun, social workplace. These people are your peers, your future clients, and maybe your future employer. Present your best self, and if that requires a beer or two to provide the "liquid courage" you need than by all means do it. Don't get hammered - this isn't "Welcome Week" in college. There isn't pressure to drink at these events, though, so if you don't drink don't feel the pressure to start now just to fit in at the event. 
5. Bring business cards, and only exchange them if you plan to reconnect later. There are lots of networking events that are purely design to build your Rolodex, and those aren't the type of event I find useful. Building relationships at these events are what they're actually designed to be about, so trade business cards when there's a planned reconnect in the near future. There are apps that you can download that automatically add the business card information into your contact book in your phone. It's cool tech if you're as dependent on your phone to remember things as I am.
6. Get off your phone. You're there to talk to people. In person.
7. Eat before you go, depending on the time of the event. There are typically finger foods provided, but you'll need to eat a real meal at some point. Depending on the connections you've made, or the people you already knew at the event, dinner after could be a good way to continue the fun and debrief on the event. 
8. Work the room. Don't spend too much time with one person, unless your goal beforehand was to connect with only one or two individuals. The more events you go to, the more comfortable you'll be walking up to random strangers and starting a conversation. If you recognize someone from a previous engagement, start there and branch out to the individuals they're talking to. Don't talk to everyone though - this will lead to conversations with no substance because you'll be too busy advancing to the next individual. 
9. Have fun. After the first event, you might be overwhelmed. After the next couple, hopefully you'll be enjoying yourself in this new environment. Networking isn't for everyone. It is however an integral part in advancing one's career. The saying, "it's not what you know, it's who you know" has proven true in my experience time and time again. Networking has allowed me to become involved in organizations I had always wanted to join, and organizations I hadn't heard of until someone opened my eyes. I've networked at my organization as well, and have broadened my skill sets to prepare me for future opportunities.  

This isn't an exhaustive list, but this should get you started with something. If you're looking for a group of individuals to network with that also have interests in philanthropy, I suggest you join us - Aspiring Leaders United, an affinity group of the United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region. We're a group of individuals age 45 and under that understand the value of volunteering, advocating, and donating our time and treasures to the community.

We refuse to use the "surprise hard ask" for donations that some non-profits groups have leaned on throughout the years, but we will "network with a purpose". Our events will have voluntary collections for nonprofits that we're working with for that event, and if money is ever expected it will be explicitly spelled-out beforehand in the invitation. If you've been in the nonprofit sector long enough, you too have been to events that really push you to donate that day. Frankly, I think the younger generation's benefit to society is in our volunteerism and activism at this time. This will lead to passion around causes and organizations, and the dollars will then come from an invested advocate of that organization or cause.

Follow the ALU activities on Facebook, and if I don't know you already come and introduce yourself. It'll be a pleasure meeting you.