What do you do if you need to develop important networking skills for a new career in Business Networking?

Business networking is crucial to expand and build professional network & relationships across geographies, get new ideas, be updated on innovations. To begin with, one must focus on the industry whether manufacturing, services or anything else. Begin with connecting & building relations with professionals in the said business area. Share your knowledge, insights that excites potential connections. Leverage online platforms, like LinkedIn for professional connections. Develop knowledge, so that one can add high-quality content. Attend industry-specific events, exhibitions, and webinars, network and build relationships. Continued learning will the key. For higher learning, get a good Mentor for fast learning.

What do you do if you need to develop important networking skills for a new career in Business Networking? Yes you can identify those who you know and who can help you. This being said what I have found it when I've had the heart of a "servant leader" then connections and referrals come along "out of the blue". It's important for one to remember there are spiritual laws that govern the material universe. Example: Law of Sowing and Reaping and the Law of Giving without the expectation of quid pro quo. I would also recommend that everyone who is building a connection network read the timeless principles in "How to Win Friends and Influence People".

Developing important networking skills for a new career in business networking involves a combination of learning, practice, and building relationships. Start by learning about the principles and strategies of effective networking. There are numerous books, online courses, and resources available that cover various aspects of networking, such as building rapport, effective communication, and relationship management.

When you're transitioning into a new career or field, it's natural to want to rely on your existing network of contacts. However, it's important to keep in mind that these individuals may not necessarily share your interests in your new area of focus. Instead, focus on building relationships based on your values, rather than just your industry experience. Your values are a crucial part of who you are and are less likely to change as you develop professionally. Remember, your experience is stackable, not a complete replacement of your past. By communicating your values and stacked experience, you can create deeper and longer-lasting connections that can provide a variety of resources for your transitional journey.

In my experience, build the network by using technology, meeting people ( clients, partners, technology peers ). It's a culmination of multiple sources where to build and grow on your network.

Define your networking objectives. What do you hope to achieve through networking? Whether it's expanding your professional contacts, seeking mentorship, or exploring career opportunities, having clear goals will guide your networking efforts.

Setting clear networking goals is crucial for career advancement. Determine what you aim to achieve: finding mentors, partners, clients, or referrals, gaining skills, insights, or exploring opportunities. Utilize SMART criteria to ensure goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, aim to connect with two industry experts monthly for mentorship by attending relevant events or reaching out via LinkedIn. Having defined objectives directs networking efforts efficiently, maximizing benefits and paving the way for professional growth within the corporate landscape.

Setting clear networking goals is important to define clear daily measures for networking. If a strong part of a defined network want to follow you and connecting you, you have reached your goal.

In my perspective, after setting networking goals, it's essential to pinpoint individuals who align with those objectives. Platforms like LinkedIn and industry forums are valuable for finding like-minded professionals. Leveraging existing connections for introductions or referrals enhances networking effectiveness. Building a diverse network spanning various backgrounds and sectors ensures a rich pool of insights, support, and opportunities critical for personal and professional growth, facilitating a well-rounded career trajectory in today's dynamic corporate landscape.

Effective networking is about building long-term relationships, not just collecting business cards. Stay in touch with your contacts regularly, nurture your relationships, and look for opportunities to support and collaborate with them.

Effective networking is, to analyze important stakeholders: important persons of my niche like potential customers, their network and influencer of this niche and branche. The second part is to analyze actual needs, messages and content to develop successful content for this network and for your own positioning.

Learn how to really listen. Listen for a feeling. Listen for an understanding. So many people are just waiting until it's their term to talk and not listening at all. Repeating the last few words the other person just said, with an inquisitive tone, will prompt them to expand on their train of thought. Stating what the other person is thinking, and/or feeling, using a phrase like; "It seems like..." or "You're probably thinking/feeling..." and they will either agree or explain further. - Keep using these two techniques until you hear the words: “That’s right.” “That's right” indicates that they have nothing else to say.  Someone with nothing to say is more likely to listen to you.

First you must know, what kind of development, I think I have no problem as long you know your responsibility. Because I’m that kind of person .

Initiating conversations with target contacts involves using diverse channels like email, phone, or social media. It's crucial to maintain professionalism, personalize messages, and articulate the value you offer. Avoid being pushy or vague, ensuring respectful engagement to foster meaningful connections conducive to mutual growth and collaboration.

Actively seek out networking events relevant to your industry or career interests. This could include industry conferences, seminars, workshops, or local meetups. Attend these events with the intention of meeting new people and building meaningful connections.

Success lies in the follow-up." This mantra echoes through the halls of entrepreneurship, yet many falter in its execution. It's easier said than done because, in the eyes of many, everyone is a potential customer clamoring for their product or service. But here's the truth: you need a strategy, and you need to stick to it. You don't need every business card out there, and they don't need yours. Instead, seek mutually beneficial opportunities by mastering the art of listening and engaging. If there's no synergy, gracefully exit the conversation – time is precious for everyone. Remember, before you can follow up, you must first build relationships. That's where many stumble on their journey to success.

After meeting someone at a networking event, be sure to follow up with them afterward. Send a personalized email or connect with them on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Express your appreciation for the conversation and suggest ways to stay in touch.

In my experience, build the network by using technology, meeting people ( clients, partners, technology peers ). It's a culmination of multiple sources where to build and grow on your network.

A salesperson's perspective: We all need to be paying attention to our communities. To think it only is for salespeople or entrepreneurs is a mistake. No one wants to be sold to. (Think of the people interrupting your Saturday) Can you drop-kick them to the curb fast enough? Networking is formal and plastic. Instead, a better plan is to have friends you go to church with or have a favorite activity playing a game with. (probably not drinking with). They talk about work and eventually, you tell them what you do, briefly. Don't drop your whole pitch on them, Vomiting on potential clients, is never a good plan. Plan to be smart set up your card on your cell phone and you'll send them information in exchange for a text message.

Building relationships follows the adage: Plant, Cultivate, Harvest. Before reaping rewards, invest time in nurturing connections. Casual lunches or coffee outings may yield poor returns. Prioritize meaningful conversations over selling. Leave networking events with meaningful contacts. Establish a follow-up schedule; emails, messages, or calls based on discussions. My approach: 3 days, 9 days, 27 days, and 3 months, with notes. Aim for an 80/20 balance – prioritize listening (80%) over talking (20%), focusing on them, not yourself.

Nurturing relationships post-initial contact is vital. Express gratitude, stay engaged, and provide value through resources or introductions. Consistent follow-ups and scheduled check-ins maintain rapport and demonstrate commitment to mutual growth. Tracking interactions ensures sustained connections, fostering long-term professional relationships beneficial for both parties.

All of these 1-6 are key and important to successful networking. However, the quality of the event you attend is often overlooked. Not enough time and effort is put into finding the right events to attend. It's a long and tedious process to find the right events, with most events taking 2 to 3 hours of your time. Therefore, it's crucial to pick and find the right events that align with your networking goals.

Business networking is a necessary skill beyond those in sales and BD. It's for everyone and should be a focus regardless of where you are in your career. Develop your presence and messaging. Know how you should describe who you are, what your personal value statement is, and what your company does so that you are clear and concise when you are networking. Clarity helps ensure others can create the right kind of introductions for you. Build an inner group of 6-12 people as your center of influence group. These are people who know, like, and trust you, and you know, like, and trust them. They are skilled at connecting and value the process. You help one another. Network together, network intentionally, and network regularly.

In order to develop our skills in business networking and reap the desired results, we need to - Have clarity of Purpose with respect to what is our long term goal - Become a good listener, listen to hear and feel what the other person is saying - What have I told give or offer to the person I am networking with - Follow up and nurture the connections we have created - Seek feedback from our existing network and reach out and join other networking groups that are more aligned with our long term goals - Remember that business networking does not produce overnight results. - We need to nurture our network, give value and stay connected with our network to reap the benefits.

In my experience, build the network by using technology, meeting people ( clients, partners, technology peers ). It's a culmination of multiple sources where to build and grow on your network.

Awareness in yourself is a MUST. I call it having the A3 Mentality. Be AWARE of Who You Are, Be AWARE of What You Do, Be AWARE of Who You Serve. Networking is an art form and understanding which events to attend is highly important. Without this leads to burnout and lack of traction. It also leads to a lack of productivity which greatly impacts the actions in your calendar.