Social Networking Skills

Good relationships are essential to any career. It doesn’t matter if
you have your own business or work for someone else that network is
critical. Lawyers, solo professionals, freelancers, and sales
professionals must constantly network and generate new business. You prove your
worth to your employer by bringing in new business. Those who do not
network will not advance their careers as rapidly as those who do. You find
your next employer by keeping your network alive and active.

1. Review the names in your address book on a regular basis. Plan to
have lunch with one of the people or invite the person to a networking or
social function. Work becomes fun when your networking connections
become friends and you are likely to do more business.

2. Before you attend a networking event, think of a few topics that
would be interesting to discuss with people. Keep the conversation
flowing by asking thoughtful questions of the people you meet. That way when
you meet a great contact you’ll be able to reference the conversation
when you reconnect with them.

3. Using email is a great way to connect with others, but make sure to
move on to other methods of communication. Talk to the person by the
phone, or if possible get together for coffee and start to build a
relationship.

4. Don’t rush the process or expect too much too soon. Networking
feels awkward at first and often those who are new at it become
discouraged. It becomes easier and more natural after a while. Don’t focus on
getting a client/customer/job. Focus on building a relationship.

5. Don’t get stuck talking to the same person all evening. You are
there to meet several people. Excuse yourself from the present company
every five to ten minutes with a pleasantry such as, “It was nice meeting
you.” and move on to introduce yourself to someone new.

6. Keep good records of your networking contacts. Whenever you connect with someone online, on the phone, or in person, jot down a few notes
to remind you of who they are and what you talked about. Record the
ideas you have about working with that person too so you can schedule a
future meeting to discuss those ideas.

7. If the event has a speaker or if someone at the event receives an
award be sure to acknowledge the person if appropriate. People always
appreciate positive reinforcement. You can do this at the networking
event or write them a note afterwards.

8. When entering a conversation first listen to how you can help the
other people in the group. Don’t try to dominate the conversation or
focus it on yourself. Your goal is not to control the conversation but to
participate in it. When appropriate offer information about yourself
that will be interesting to your new contacts.

9. The purpose of networking events is to make connections not to get
business. Ultimately you will get business from it but don’t expect it
to happen immediately. Your success rate will improve if you have a give
and take attitude. Listen to what other people do and show interest
in their work.

10. Some people find networking events a little intimidating. If this
happens to you, try attending with a friend who is in a different
business so that you can help each other out. You can work as a team,
introducing each other and giving testimonials about each others business.
This will build your confidence as well as your credibility to others.

About Alvah Parker

Alvah Parker is a Practice Advisor and Career Coach as well as publisher of Parker’s Points, an email tip list and Road to Success, an ezine. To subscribe send an email to join-roadtosuccess@go.netatlantic.com

Parker works with successful attorneys who feel overwhelmed by their work and are willing to take action to create a more profitable practice and a more fulfilling life. Alvah also helps attorneys and others who want to change careers and find the work that is more meaningful and fulfilling. Alvah is found on the web at http://www.asparker.com She may also be reached at 781-598-0388

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