Networking is sometimes a four-letter word that makes people visualize painful situations in which they are supposed to be captivating and engaging when they really feel like crawling under a rock. It doesn't have to be like that! Follow the three strategies presented in today’s newsletter and it will be just a bit easier for you.



Plus, as we head in to the holidays, you will likely have several opportunities to have conversations (i.e. networking meetings!) with people that may be able to have influence on your career pursuits, so now is the perfect time to put these strategies in to play.



1. Be clear in your message: Often, when someone says "So George, what is up with you?,” you may find yourself answering "Oh, nothing much, same old same old,” or, if you've given it some thought you may manage to say something like "Yeah, I'm looking for a new job." The problem with those answers is that none of them give the other person enough information about you, nor do they give the listener something to latch on to so they can pursue a conversation. To be more effective, try something like this: "Actually, I am looking for a new position in the security field. My goal is to become a Security Director for an international company by the end of the year." That way, they can ask follow up questions that can lead to a deeper conversation for both of you.




2. Ask others questions: One of the best strategies in networking is doing your part to get others to talk. After all, if you are truly networking, you are also listening for your opportunity to help someone else meet their needs or provide the right referrals for them. Some great questions to ask include: Who are your clients? How are those house improvements coming? What is your next big project? Tell me more about that vacation you are planning, what do you have in store? How are the kids doing in school? What kinds of projects do you do at work? What do you find your clients need most from you? How did you build your expertise in that area? Do you like the community in your new area? Did you see that article about ABC Company – how does that affect your work? Networking doesn’t have to be all professional. By asking about someone’s personal life and interests, you are showing that you are interested in them as a whole person.




3. Send holiday greetings: Either by traditional holiday card, quick check-in email, LinkedIn note, phone call, or even text message. Start a conversation with a greeting. Show people that you are thinking about them, and then use the above two strategies to launch a deeper conversation.




4. Go to Parties!: Take advantage of holiday parties, networking meetings, and other gatherings this season and whenever you can. That way you create natural opportunities for yourself to network and connect with others. Approach people gently and use strategy #2 to start conversations. The old stand-by of making small talk about the weather can give you just the right comfort level you need to warm up and really engage in conversation with someone. Keep the focus on them so you aren’t so stuck in what to say!



So, I lied, I gave you four strategies instead of three. In my defense, if you've ever read a marketing book, you know that a smart marketing strategy is to give people tips in odd numbers (how many articles titled "7 Tips for Managing Money or 5 Must Have’s for Your Toolbox" have you seen?).



No matter how many tips I give you, it is up to you to incorporate them in to your everyday networking habits. If you need additional ideas, contact me. I love helping people figure out ways to make their conversations and networking meetings more fruitful for everyone involved!