Networking – a word that understandably strikes fear in a great many of us. But why is this? It’s quite a scary and daunting prospect to put yourself in front of a complete stranger and essentially build a relationship from scratch. Will they like me? What can I say? What if nobody talks to me? These are all questions we ask ourselves before attending any event, but why in particular, do networking events strike this such a fear?
Children are amazing networkers – they strike up a conversation with the vast majority of other children and adults, sharing information about what they’re wearing or their interests. Where then, do we lose that ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone?
Finding the right networking organisation for you is key. At Introbiz, we recognise how difficult it is for first-time networkers, as well as those who may be a little bit rusty when it comes to striking up new conversations. It’s difficult to find, yet alone make time to attend good quality events, but they really should be an established and imperative part of your marketing and brand awareness campaigns. You may find that we’re different from a number of other networking companies, due to the fact that we actually encourage you not to work the room. By listening to our members, as well as our own expertise, we know that this is not an effective way to connect – it’s much more productive and friendly to make one or two connections where you can get to know them on a deeper level.
At our events, we’ve met all sorts of individuals who all have different stories to tell. Some sad, some inspirational, some exciting, some motivational, but all who don’t want to be hard-sold to. They want to get to know you, who you are as a person, what you offer, and if you can be trusted. This is the ethos we abide by, and we encourage our members to do the same, therefore breeding and developing an organic, trusted, and motivational organisation.
Networking organisations should also be incredibly supportive, because life does throw some unexpected events our way, sometimes at the most difficult or awkward time. When we converse with our members, we make a point of asking if there are any concerns, or if there are any ways in which we can be of assistance. Naturally, the conversation starts flowing, trust is greatly increased, and the level of safety and supportiveness felt is paramount.
We really do encourage natural, transparent, and honest conversations at our events, workshops and just general conversation. It’s vital to never overpromise – trust us, it’s just not worth it! After all, it’s down to us to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your membership package, that you’re receiving the connections that are beneficial to you, the advice that you’re looking for to overcome a whole range of challenges that you may be facing within your business, or quite simply looking for a friendly, impartial ear to talk to.
The most important aspect of being a part of a networking organisation? Being free to be yourself and enjoying your time whilst at an event or workshop. It sounds cheesy and obvious, but it’s so important to enjoy being a part of your chosen network. Getting yourself ready, preparing an elevator pitch, and really working hard at building relationships takes time and really brings you out of your comfort zone, so it’s vital that you feel comfortable and feel a sense of happiness and excitement at the prospect of a networking event.
Joining a networking organisation such as Introbiz, really can provide endless opportunity and development, not only for your business, but for you as an individual. Is Introbiz the network for you? Visit our networking diary to see if our events and format is suited to you and don’t forget to visit our YouTube channel to get a feel for what we can do for you.
