Opportunities are uncovered through better conversations
If you are in business or are seeking a new direction, then you MUST get out and network. The power of word-of mouth and “who do you know who…? ” will open doors and opportunities more cost effectively, than advertising your services or answering an advertisement on an employment website where hundreds of people respond for the one job or provide a similar service or product.
I have always found that attending networking events has connected me with many opportunities that at first may be hidden, but investing time always pays off because I learn something about myself and others.
Be curious
Over the last 10 years , I have attended more networking events than I can count. I like to choose events where I can engage with both men and women in business and where I come away having learnt something and engaged in conversation. You see I am a naturally curious person and I encourage you to become one too!
I am often the facilitator and creating the opportunity for others to connect and learn and love to introduce introducing people, having already uncovered possibilities for them to explore. I see my job as definitely the "host" , making sure that people feel welcome and comfortable.
I have found that this role, allows me to observe human behaviour and see how people immerse themselves into the space and the gathering. It is the same, if I facilitate an event for an association or corporate group at a conference., I use skills that I developed in my teaching career to draw people out and involve them in ways they may never have envisaged at a business networking event or team building session.
Everyone has their own style
What I know to be true is that there are always your introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts . Everyone has their own style and that is perfectly OK.
I am sure you at events you may also have seen, but not thought about how some people hide behind a screen, or make a last minute call to ease into the situation. Then of course there are your “jump right-ins”, your “corner goers” and those always running later. Everyone deals with an unfamiliar situation differently .
What I also observe is that there is a difference in the way men and women, and women and women, and men and men engage.
There are certainly differences in how a conversation starts between women where usually the initial engagement is about getting to know the person before the business. Men generally are more comfortable in going to the business subjects first.
Often this results in the initial engagement between a man and a woman being less certain, with common ground or a start point harder to find.
Does it really matter whatever the approach?
I think it does and I share three observations with you here:
Building a relationship first will more likely lead to opportunities
If it is a truth that building a relationship first will more likely lead to finding a client, referrer, supplier or like-minded collaborator or friend, then I think Men should think about how they first engage with a woman or a man at a networking event.
And, I think that women should also consider going to more mixed events to amplify their reach.
Both genders have different life and business which is of value to others. If we restrict who we build relationships with, then I suggest that perhaps opportunities stay hidden or missed.
Open and "be interested questions” are they key
Open and "be interested "questions about who you are talking to is the key …..not what they do.
Women are superb at this because they are genuinely interested in Who is in front of them and then Why they do what they do. Building the foundation of a potential relationship is respectful and considered and most likely a more interesting and rewarding spend of your networking time.
Men (not all) often go straight to questions that could become a really a quick assessment of the persons potential to them. This runs the risk of missing out on 80% of the story and the wider network that surrounds the person in front of them and will likely lead to a missed opportunity to find a client, referrer, supplier or like-minded collaborator or friend.
Diversity and inclusion can create "magic"
If we continue to do what we have always done, what opportunities could you be missing? Perhaps its time to reflect .
Networking events are not the only way to build a network
Diversify your Networking Groups
Never underestimate who you are talking too
Engage in good conversations, and apply good communication skills
So, perhaps a change of approach when first striking up a conversation would be beneficial?
When we focus in on Who is in front of us, Why they do what they do and then perhaps the business they do can reap rich rewards.
Remember- Relationships are key and meaningful conversations open doors to purposeful connections and expanded contribution, driving business, growth and fulfillment.
Are you missing opportunities to grow your business and unlock your potential by having a narrow focus to the relationships you are building ? Test yourself here and see how you rate . You will receive a scorecard and some tips and strategies that I know can improve your results.
Hello, I am Kerryn Powell, The Network Catalyst and founder of Your Time Matters and podcast host of Conversations and connections to amplify and inspire. I am a connection strategist, conversation starter and network catalyst who thrives on building communities and creating the right connections for those seeking strategic allies to make a positive impact through connection, contribution and community.
I draw on my diverse career portfolio, experience, skills and knowledge to encourage, support and empower business owners, professionals, teams and individuals to create true connection through authentic conversations that build real relationships, boost confidence and generate business and opportunities.
For the past 9 years, I have provided opportunity for more than 3000 business owners to engage in real life and online events through Your Time Matters. BOOK a discovery call TODAY, and let’s have a conversation to see how I can help you find, start or improve your business networking.