Overcoming fear: top tips for making the most of networking

There is nothing that strikes fear within most people new to business than the word networking. We hear about it, we know that it is a successful way to make connections, and yet the idea of having to go and introduce ourselves to a load of strangers can put us off doing it.
At Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, networking is the very heart of what we do.  With thirty years of experience, we know a bit about what works and what doesn’t. As such, we are here to share some top tips about networking to increase your confidence and offer advice to those new to the game. We always welcome your tips for making the most of, and even enjoying networking.

Be prepared

Make sure you have some business cards on you. These act as a great reminder for people who take their networking seriously and want to follow up the leads they make. Whilst it might be appropriate to keep a supply of leaflets somewhere, we advise against making them explicit when you take a seat. You can always go and access them later if someone is interested in finding out more about what you do.

Get there on time

Or even early. It’s human nature to try and get there in the final minute, so as to minimise time spent having to actually speak to the new people! However, getting there a little early means you’ll see it at its quietest and the other delegates will be in the same boat as you, not in their groups. Our team are always on hand early at our events to be a friendly face and help newcomers settle in.

Be friendly – don’t go in with a sales pitch

It’s tempting to sit at the edge of the room, waiting for someone to approach you. But this might not happen, so we recommend getting the conversation going by asking some easy, chatty questions. Start off by asking if it’s OK to join and then keep it light, asking what brings them here. Even if you are a little nervous, this encourages those more confident to speak and if you listen effectively, you will likely make a new friend pretty quickly.

Do NOT go in with a sales pitch

We cannot stress this enough. Cornwall Chamber of Commerce’s events comprise some movers and shakers from all around Cornwall and beyond: seasoned networkers, sole traders, SMEs and larger firms, but one thing that you must remember is that they are all people! Nobody likes being sold to, even at a business event. In its true essence, networking is all about relationship building. Keep your exchange fun, light and informal and you will see your network flourish over time.
Hopefully you will get some interest in your product or service, and be ready with some killer facts and a subtle sales pitch, but remember not to make this your focus.

Be confident but don’t dominate

You have probably got a lot to say about the things you are passionate about, and whilst this is what makes people connect, remember to take the time to listen to others’ opinions too. Nerves can make some people overcompensate by talking too much. Beware of falling into this trap. People are more likely to do business with people they like and trust, so let your natural personality shine through and make other people feel special.

Follow up

Networking is the beginning of the conversation, so the business card exchange is the gateway to furthering it. Your conversation partner may prefer to connect on Linked In or by email, or they may say “give me a call”. However you plan to do so, try contacting them within 48 hours of the event to show you're interested. It’s always a good idea to reference what you have been discussing so they will remember you.
What are your networking tips? If you’d like to submit a blog post or networking tip, we welcome what you have to say.