How to Network in 2020: Top Tips You Can Use Today

The ability to network is an exceptionally valuable skill to have, especially when it comes to being an entrepreneur and building a start-up. However, it’s so much more than that. People who have the ability to network are also more likely to gain new opportunities, build great friendships and gain valuable knowledge. So, what do you need to know about networking in 2020 and how do you go about it? We’re going to give you some of our top tips, so you can get to networking ASAP.

While the prospect of attending networking events can seem scary (especially if you’re not a huge fan of being in a room full of people you don’t know), they can be invaluable to building connections. Networking events are truly the best way to meet others that are in the same industry as you. They are also a great way to make lasting contacts that could potentially help you out later.

One of the aspects of networking events that may put you off, is the idea of not knowing what to do when you first walk in the room, never mind what to say. Are you supposed to aimlessly walk around the room, waiting for someone to approach you or should you make the first move?

Colleen DeBaise of Entrepreneur.com shares her thoughts:

“Don’t wait around the edges of the room, waiting for someone to approach you. To get the conversation started, simply walk up to a person or a group, and say, “May I join you” or “What brings you to this event?” Don’t forget to listen intently to their replies. If you’re not a natural extrovert, you’re probably a very good listener – and listening can be an excellent way to get to know a person.”

While it’s clearly important to focus on the ultimate reasons behind why you’re attending a networking event, it’s important to not make the small talk all about business. Building genuine connections with your colleagues involves establishing a personal connection with them, beyond just industry talk.

Hannah Taylor of Ironistic expands on this on Forbes.com’s 10 Networking Tips To Help You Make A Great First Impression At An Event:

“Networking events are a bit like being set up on a blind date, and similar rules apply. Don’t take over the conversation and talk about yourself and your business. People want to feel that you are genuinely interested in them. Ask questions to get to know the other person and understand what they do. As you build a personal connection, potential business opportunities often present themselves.”

As much as you would like to make a lasting impression on everyone in the room, you don’t want to be moving from person to person, shoving your business card in their face. While you may feel like you’re covering more ground by doing this, you’re both not establishing genuine connections and becoming a turn off. Focusing on those few connections is much more likely to produce your desired result, rather than acting like you’re there for a speed dating service.

Marketing consultant Shel Horowitz talks more about quality over quantity when it comes to networking on Monster.com:

Now that you know how to build your business by establishing personal, quality connections, did you know you can do the same in a co-working space? Check out our co-working space here and claim your desk.