Embrace networking etiquette for successful networks

You should never underestimate the value of networking at any event, whether at seminars, retreats, talks, or while volunteering. There should always be time in your busy schedule for networking. Prepare to connect and talk with new people whenever you can, so you leave a good impression of being engaged. When you meet someone, you should:

During your handshake, make eye contact and speak clearly.
When you introduce yourself, tell them a bit about yourself and what you do.
Put phones and tablets away, out of sight.
Make sure to maintain eye contact throughout your conversation.
Learn to listen more than you speak and make sure you give your time to others.
Never call someone by their first name unless that person gives you permission to do so.
Maintain a follow-up routine with your contacts at least once a month.
Engage in self-promotion on social media, amplify your online presence, and brand yourself.
Be active on social media by posting current topics and news related to your industry.

Dress for Success

No matter your age or gender, you should always wear proper attire when performing your duties. This gives a good impression to others. Your presentation will demonstrate you are serious and that you can represent the company well. When you are meeting someone, your attire is an indication of how important it is for you to meet them.The balance between comfort and functionality while still following personal style, safety codes or other industry regulations is important for daily work.

There are several tips we can follow to make a good first impression when attending an event such as a talk, seminar, or a networking event. We recommend:

Wear:

Clean and well-fitted clothes.
Colors that are neutral
Shoes that are clean
A well-groomed hairstyle
The jewelry is subtly designed.

Avoid:

Clothing that is too tight
Clothing with wrinkles and damage
Graphic or controversial tees
Clothing with no sleeves
Jewelry of an excessive size

To conclude this section, I must say that appearances do matter. When you’re at work, appearance may not feel as important as when you’re meeting someone for the first time. We often combine the two, so incorporating the tips above into your life is a good idea. Best of all, we can decide on our own what kind of image we would like to project and how we will brand ourselves. Luckily, there are several ways for us to make a good first impression while still completing our work responsibilities.

Thank you letters

Did you enjoy a presentation or a seminar? Were you interviewed and interested in the position? Did you have a great one-to-on? Take the time to acknowledge the people around you! Thank you letters are an easy way to build connections. After a meeting, sending a thank you note makes you more favorable. In addition, recognition and admiration are important components of a powerful network. Let them know how much you enjoyed the time and cite a few examples you enjoyed. Set the stage for future engaging conversations. The best thank you letters include:

Within five days of the event, write a letter or send an e-mail
Make sure your contact’s name and spelling is correct.
Keep chit-chat and informal language to a minimum
Make sure your grammar and punctuation are correct.

Be brief, concise, and include these points:

When and where did you meet the contact?
Keep in touch with the company (interviews) or reaffirm your interest in the opportunity or connection (networking).
Be specific about what you liked, restate your understanding, and note what you would like to clarify.
Then, thank the person again for their time, effort, and provide a way to follow up, such as allowing the sender’s email or return address to be used.

Success is possible if you make the right decisions and keep in mind all the steps that lead you to success. Networking is important, so don’t underestimate it! Please share any tips you have on networking.