Networking is tedious, but there is a better way.

Welcome to another edition of The Company Man! Today I want to talk about networking.

I recently returned from a 4-day conference attended by hundreds of people. On the long flight home I counted on my fingers the number of new connections I had made. A colleague of mine who accompanied me to the same conference probably made a hundred. He would shake hands, introduce himself and talk to as many as 7-10 people in every session, over every lunch and every coffee as I watched in awe from the corner.

Networking can be tedious – all those strangers, small talk, and business cards can be overwhelming. But networking is essential for building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships that can help you advance your goals. And if you're anything like me, relax - like many things in life the success of your network lies in quality not quantity.

So, how can you make the most of your networking efforts without feeling like a pushy salesperson? Here are some tips for building genuine, long-term connections:

1. Focus on building relationships, not just collecting business cards. It's tempting to hand out your card to everyone you meet at a networking event, but this isn't the most effective way to make lasting connections. Instead, try to have meaningful conversations and get to know the other person. You never know – you might have a shared hobby or interest that can help you stay in touch.
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2. Follow up after the event. Just because the networking event is over doesn't mean your work is done. Take the time to follow up with the people you met, whether it's via email, LinkedIn, or a phone call. This will help you stay top of mind and establish a relationship beyond just a brief conversation.
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3. Offer value. No one likes a taker – if you want to build long-term relationships, you need to be willing to offer value to others. This can mean sharing useful information, introducing people to each other, or offering to help with a problem they're facing. By giving first, you'll build trust and establish yourself as a valuable resource.
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4. Don't be afraid to get personal. While it's important to keep things professional, it's okay to show a little personality and vulnerability. Sharing personal stories or experiences can help you connect with others on a deeper level and build more meaningful relationships.
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5. Don't be a stranger. Keep in touch with the people you meet, whether it's through regular email updates, lunch meetings, or attending the same events. The more you stay in touch, the more likely you are to maintain and strengthen your relationships over time.

So don't be afraid to put yourself out there and start networking! With a little effort and these tips in mind, you can build long-term connections that will benefit you both personally and professionally.

I hope you enjoyed reading. If you have a great networking tip or horror story to share, I'd love to hear it! Respond to this email to reach me directly.

Thank you and have a great week ahead!

Yours curiously
Anupam

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