If you want to get anywhere in the business world, you have to know how to network. And more than just being familiar with the basics, you have to know how to network better.
For inventors, networking can be such a valuable asset. It can get them access to investors, prototype makers, media, and customers! This is why everyone can use tips to become a better networker.
While you may already know how to do some things, there are always improvements that can still be made. Follow these tips and watch yourself improve as a networker, and as a business person too!
Do things for other people before thinking of yourself – The thing is, people think that the reason to network is to satisfy their own needs, and their own wants for their business. While this is actually true, other people don’t take it too kindly when you appear like you are only looking after yourself.
You won’t be liked and if that happens, you will struggle to make connections too. The best thing to achieve a likeable status is to genuine develop a love for helping people. You have to find a way to really help them first, before thinking about your own agenda.
If you operate this way, these people will remember, and when it’s your turn to ask for a favor, or a connection, they will most likely want to help you too!
Don’t underestimate access – There is so much that you can do with all of the media outlets that are now available to you. Maximizing your access to people, places and things, and making the people that you network with know about your knowledge could make you very valuable in their eyes.
Of course, everyone will want to connect and network with the guy who has the access to many, many things. So, start taking the steps today so that you end up being that guy!
We’re pretty confident that when you start to do this, most people will be looking for way to network with you instead of the other way around!
Meet and make a connection – Try to connect people, they will want to know you. Successful networking is not just having a one off conversation with someone. Sure, it can take skill to approach someone and actually find an interesting and engaging topic to talk about, but there is so much more to that in real networking.
Real networking is all about making connections. You want to meet a person, and find a way to connect him or her to other people. If everyone practiced this in the world of networking, then we would all make the connections that we need and everyone would go home happy!
Keep this process in mind every time you go out and network, just so people will start to see you as someone with value, and who they wouldn’t mind connecting with their contacts too!
These are just some simple ways for you to become a better networker! Why not try practicing these tips at the next networking opportunity that you find yourself in, and see how they work for you? We would love to hear about your experience!
About The Guest Author: Edward Lakatis run and writes for Idea Design Studio, an invention development and marketing company. He is passionate about all things related to creativity, invention, and helping other inventors realize their potential.
Networking People Photo via Shutterstock
