You're a self-employed hospitality professional seeking success. How can networking benefit your career?

Networking is possibly one of the most important skills that will help you get ahead in hospitality. Working hard is a given however combined with good networking skills it can become the difference between success and stagnancy. Hospitality, esp hiring, functions on references as much as skills. If you have developed the skills, focus on networking to get your name and face known in the industry. Keep up with customers, guests, hospitality professionals, colleagues, etc who can offer solutions your business or you can benefit from. It is especially beneficial when you're in a crunch and need help last minute - that is when contacts come in handy. Don't just work hard. Work smart.

Self-employed means "You are on your own". As simple as it seems, there is plenty of work to be done as you are up against corporate companies or simply others like yourself. Through networking is where you get to build your contacts and market your niche to them. Be approachable and be open-minded as not everyone is going to buy your service. Do not shun people who do not buy from you and business is long term. Relationship-Building needs time and perserverance. Make investments by attending industry events, trade shows and make contributions to online forums. Speak to people who have been successful in this part and seek opportunities to learn. Do the hard work and at the same time, be smart about it. Success will follow.

This is a game that i always have in mind when networking. Read the room find out where the people that you wanted to network hang out and where are the possibile extention to your network. Think Big, the network that you connect today might connect to the collabation that you will do next week, so do not be picky. Last, follow up, short note of thank you will do wonders.

Networking isn’t just about who you know; it’s about who knows you. Build a reputation as a problem solver or industry leader, so people remember and seek out your expertise.

Starting from your appearance, you might want to appear approachable and blend with the crowd. By projecting these image, people see you as somewhat an interesting person to be in conversation with, projecting intelligence without boasting. Share your story in natural tone of voice, use stop / pause when making a point. Always make it a collaborative effort instead of a personal glory.

Networking has a profound impact on career growth and has been instrumental in my success as a self-employed hotel consultant. My extensive experience combined with proactive networking have led to valuable recognition and a strong brand identity which drives a steady flow of new clients through word of mouth. Networking requires TIME and a PERSONAL TOUCH. My "recipe" of what to do: engaging in LinkedIn discussions, organizing live streaming events, attending in-person industry events, speaking at conferences, and providing mentorship. Being accessible to colleagues and engaging with industry professionals, strengthens these connections. When you cultivate a strong network and deliver exceptional work, opportunities naturally follow.