Beyond the Business Card Authentic Networking Strategies ft. Kerryn Powell
If you think networking is uncomfortable, awkward and a waste of time you’re not alone. Networking can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. In this podcast, Kerryn Powell speaks to Elise Stevens about how to be a better networker.
Kerryn is a business connector and networking educator who believes fostering relationships and creating opportunities for valuable connections is essential in business.
As the founder of Your Time Matters, Kerryn helps business people have the right conversations. Your Time Matters teaches effective face-to-face conversation skills and networking techniques to help create deeper business relationships.
Points raised in this podcast:
- Networking is more than simply being sold something. Networking allows you to build relationships that may one day turn into business, but actually offer far more.
- It’s not unusual to dislike networking. Most people feel uncomfortable networking as they’re going into a situation that is unfamiliar. Try to go in with an intention of what you want to achieve and remember to keep an open mind.
- Networking is a life skill. We network all our lives. As a parent, we network with other parents. We network with the people who provide our services such as our mechanic or our hairdresser, as well as those we meet in business. Thinking of your every day conversations in this way can help you be a better networker
- Spend most of your time listening. Have a handful of open questions you can ask that invite valuable conversations rather than simply struggling through small talk.
- The large majority of jobs come from networks; from people that know each other. More than 60% of work comes from referrals.
- Networking can help you stay ahead of trends in business, such as content marketing or storytelling.
- Try to go to a variety of networking events. You may not enjoy all of them, but you will get a broader idea of the different types of networking available to you.
- Don’t forget to take your business cards. They may seem old-fashioned but they still have an important purpose.
- Remember to follow up. If you had a good conversation with someone at an event be sure to make contact later.
Do a networking health check and find more top tips on Kerryn’s website Your Time Matters.