20 Networking Tips and Etiquette Rules

Is networking a shallow, self-serving, fly-by-night deal ? Many people think so, and I believe this reputation is due to some professionals and business people that, unknowingly, act in a manner fuelling this negative image.

I think that every aspect of our lives evolves through networking, and that it should be about helping other people before anything else. Most of the time, if you offer something of value to a perfect stranger, the chances of them reciprocating is so much higher.

So to contribute in giving networking the altruistic reputation it should have, I will share with you 20 tips and etiquette rules that, if followed, will make you a better networker and enhance the experience for everyone.

1. A first rule of etiquette is to respect other people’s time. Tell them right away what you want to talk to them about, how long that will take, and ask if this is a good time.

2. A second rule of etiquette is to talk about them first and never ask for anything during a first contact, other than their business card and permission to contact them further.

3. A third rule of etiquette is to keep written exchanges short. Better to send three emails back and forth, each covering one or two topics only.

4. A fourth rule of etiquette is to ask a contact if they are interested in what you have to offer, before requesting help from them to develop your business in some way.

5. Start networking by nurturing your existing network. You already have strong relationships in your personal and professional lives, so share with them first.

6. Then ask your contacts if they would appreciate being connected with someone else with shared interests. If they say yes, just introduce them and let them go from there.

7. Finally, take every opportunity you have to share with a contact useful tools or information. The more value you create, the more it will come back to you.

8. Never dismiss anyone, since everyone has its strengths and you never know when you might need those. Also, you never know who they know.

9. Don’t let chance dictate your networking. Be prepared and organized. Know what objective you want to attain and the type of people you want to add to your network.

10. In your plan, remember that quality always beats quantity. A few strong contacts ready to lend you a hand when you need it is worth so much more than hundreds who won’t.

11. Cultivate a well-rounded network. Connect with people in all areas of your life, not just your industry. This way you bring more value to your entire network.

12. Approach new contacts with an opened mind and an opened heart. Be genuinely interested in them. Don’t expect anything specific. Just see what comes of it.

13. Be consistent in your networking efforts by contacting one person a day from your existing network and one new person every day.

14. Also be consistent in following up with new contacts made. It only takes a few sentences in an email, relating to your first contact, to make a lasting impression.

15. When a contact ignores your communication for a few weeks, try a different approach. If you wrote an email, try calling. If you called, try dropping in to talk in person.

16. And when a person refuses your contact, there is a good chance the reason is simply bad timing. Give them some space and try again later on.

17. Remember that people like to do business with people they consider trustworthy. So be genuine and altruistic, and your contacts will think of you first when the time comes.

18. Being interested beats being interesting any day of the week. Really listen to what people have to say, what they think, and what is important to them.

19. Networking is real work. So don’t overlook the less obvious opportunities. Volunteer for projects, committees, events and non-profits. The contacts will amaze you.

20. Never be afraid to take the road less travelled. Use the traditional methods of connecting, like the phone and face-to-face meetings. They often have better results.

I invite you to visit this page of our website to find out about a good networking event coming up soon, where you could practice your skills.

For more in depth and detailed information, Phoenix Alliance offers a FREE specialized «How to get the most out of networking events» seminar to its registered members.

Interesting outside link: « 6 tips on how to get the most out of business networking »