Top 10 Networking & Conversation Tips
One of the most common questions our networking speaker team at Shepa Learning is asked during our live sessions is “What are your top networking and conversation tips?” Because of this, we thought it would be helpful to put together a list of our top 10 networking and conversation tips for you, our readers, to reference.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, we think each item will help you not only be a better networker and conversationalist, but also a better Positive Networker® – the inspiration behind our new online course for individuals and businesses.
At Shepa Learning, we like to say that “networking isn’t about you, it’s about discovering what you can do for others” and as you’ll see from our top 10 list below, learning how to network effectively starts with being proactive, prepared, confident, and of course, positive.
Top 10 Networking & Conversation Tips
#1 – All connections have value, so treat each interaction as worthy of your time (and theirs)
To start off our networking and conversation tips, we thought we’d begin with one of the most important. Believe it or not (and hopefully you do after reading this), ALL connections have value.
This means that the person you’re standing behind in line at the grocery store, your barista at your favourite coffee shop, and yes, even ‘small talk’ with colleagues at your workplace watercooler or a Slack channel. Realizing the value of each and every interaction you have and treating it as such is the key to relationship success.
#2 – Start your smile on the way to meeting someone
Smiles are more valuable than they seem at face value. Not only does smiling make you feel more confident, but it also shows the person you’re approaching that you value them (see our point above), and instantly adds value to the conversation you’re about to have.
No one wants to have a conversation with a stranger who’s walking towards them with a grimace.
Try smiling. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the results!
#3 – Be the first person to put out your hand
Although this point might not be applicable during our current COVID situation, we believe that the handshake is here to stay.
One of the best things you can do when you’re meeting someone is to be the first person to put out your hand for a handshake. Although it might seem a bit official based on some types of interactions, this simple gesture shows that you’re professional, confident, and interesting to talk to.
It’s also important to note that a handshake doesn’t necessarily need to be a tangible thing. For example, if you’re meeting someone online versus in person, a greeting and introduction should always be made first, before you get down to business.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to network both online and in person in our new hybrid world, check out our New Normal – Hybrid Networking sessions.
#4 – Give the person you are talking to 98% of your attention. Save 2% for those standing in your periphery
Have you ever been talking to someone and noticed that they’re scanning the room and not focused on you? If you have, you’ve likely noticed that it seems like they are looking for someone ‘more important’, ‘more interesting’, to talk to. Make sure you aren’t one of those people!
Another incredibly important networking and conversation tip is to make sure that you’re looking at the person you’re talking to but if there is someone on the periphery of your conversation be aware of them as well. Smile and nod at them. It’s a way of letting them know you see them and will bring them into the conversation .
We have all been that person standing on the sidelines of a conversation, hoping to be invited in. It feels awkward. So, take the lead and be the gracious person who welcomes them to your group. Treat others as you like to be treated.
#5 – Ask the first question
I love awkward silence. Said no one ever! Most of us find this incredibly uncomfortable.
Not only does asking the first question break up awkward silence, and help you avoid the “now what comes after Hi” situation, but it also shows the other person you’re interested in them and what they have to say.
If you have trouble coming up with questions, make sure that you prepare some in advance so that you feel confident practicing this. It will really make a difference!
#6 – If it’s a challenge to get a conversation going, keep asking questions
Further to the point above, if after asking the first question (hopefully open-ended), you notice that there’s still not much of a conversation flowing, don’t give up. Keep asking questions!
If you can identify what the person you’re interacting likes to talk about, you’ll likely have trouble getting a word in edgewise afterwards, even if they’re an introvert.
#7 – Keep this thought in mind: Is there anything I can do for this person, or can I add value in some other way?
Ah, yes. Value has come up once again (we’re detecting a theme.)
When you’re interacting with someone else, we can pretty much guarantee you that there’s something that you can specifically say that will add value for them. If not, there’s likely other ways in which you can do something to help them out.
For example, let’s say that you’re talking to someone and after some excellent conversation, you realize that there’s no opportunities for you to work together. However, if you think about who in your life might be of value to them, you can offer to connect them!
Voila! You’ve instantly added value.
#8 – If you say you are going to follow up, do it quickly
Further to the point above, and also just in general, if you say you’re going to connect people, or follow up with someone – do it quickly.
Response expectation times are much shorter in today’s world, and the length of time you take to respond is directly correlated to the value (yep, we said it again) that the other person will place on that interaction.
#9 – Always have business cards, even if you choose other options to connect
Here’s an easy networking and conversation tip. Are you leaving your house, or office, or getting on a plane, or going to some event? If the answer is yes to any of these situations, bring your business cards with you. Full stop.
#10 – Act like a host, even if you aren’t
We all love those people in our lives who welcome people into their sphere, rescue wallflowers, and connect people who should meet one another – so be one of those people!
It doesn’t have to be your event for you to take action to bring people together, and you’ll likely win a lot of conversations (and respect) if you do.
Wrapping it up
That concludes our top 10 networking and conversation tips blog article, but the fun doesn’t need to stop here!
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