Now more than ever, networking is vital for your success. Don’t just take my word for it, however – studies have found that the majority of jobs are being found through networking, and that trend is likely to continue. Even if you’re not actively searching for a job, you can safely bet that successful entrepreneurs and business moguls aren’t finding their success in a bubble.
Thankfully, networking success can be achieved fairly easily. Look no further than Dale Carnegie for the answer – his bestselling book “How to Win Friends and Influence People” has become a business and networking success staple.
Here are a few of Carnegie’s expert hacks that you can use to boost your networking success today:
Come out of your shell
“If you want to conquer fear, don’t sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” — Dale Carnegie
If you’re introverted or intimidated by networking, don’t let that become an excuse to hold back your success. You’re never going to become good at networking if you don’t take that first leap of faith. Successful people are continually destroying their comfort zones, and you should be too.
Be yourself. Be genuine
“When dealing with people, remember you are not dealing with creatures of logic, but creatures of emotion.” – Dale Carnegie
The key to successful networking doesn’t involve throwing your business card at everyone you meet, or making thousands of LinkedIN requests. Rather, the true key to being successful lies in being your authentic, genuine self.
Throughout his teachings, Dale Carnegie stressed the importance of being genuine and sincere when dealing with people, especially during the initial meeting. Show them what you got and be memorable yet give them a chance to shine as well. Give them sincere compliments and listen to what they have to say. By paying attention to the people you interact with, you will be dealt with the same courtesy and trust and camaraderie will more likely be established.
Follow up
“Take a chance! All life is a chance. The man who goes farthest is generally the one who is willing to do and dare.” – Dale Carnegie
Successful business people don’t give up after one try; they take initiative and are constantly making efforts to ensure their succcess.
This is truer than ever with networking. Today’s modern technology gives us no excuse not to be able to keep in touch or follow up despite distance or time. Shoot an email or send a thank you card after a meeting. If possible, give them a phone call and mention instances or information that you have discussed during your previous meeting or any other tidbits that are relevant to their business or organization. In the end, they will remember you for your courteousness and may extend another invitation to collaborate for future projects or ventures.
Do you have any more networking success tips? I’d love to hear from you – give me a shout-out on Twitter!
