Meeting new people in your community needs to be effective for you. Networking doesn’t have to go by the traditional definition of a stuffy cocktail hour or lengthy symposium. Below are a few tips for networking made for you.
Don’t Underestimate the Event Organizer. Take the worry out of who you will approach first and what you will say. Arrive to the event with the intent of immediately thanking the organizer for putting the event together. Have them recommend 3 attendees you should meet to get you in the flow of approaching people.
Network on Social. If you aren’t quite comfortable networking at events in your community yet, you can start by looking at hashtags relevant to the people you would like to build relationships with. This is the easiest to do on the Instagram mobile app platform.
For example, a real estate agent wanting to sell more homes in the Hyde Park area would comment, follow, and like the photos of families visiting restaurants or attractions local to the targeted area.
Building your relationships online gives you a glimpse into your ideal client and provides you with clarity on how you can build that relationship off-line. Networking on social media can be even more effective for your brand awareness when paired with building in person relationships.
Get Involved with your Community. Put yourself in an environment you feel comfortable. You chose to volunteer with your local arts theatre, Girl Scout troupe, or hospital. Interacting with your community where you feel most comfortable will help you meet new people without the pressure of a professional event.
