by Gilda Bonanno LLC
Networking is a cornerstone of professional success, whether you're building your personal brand, seeking new clients or positioning yourself as a leader.
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These 25 strategies will help you enhance your networking abilities in 2025:
1. Bring Positive Energy: If you can't be enthusiastic, reconsider attending the event.
2. Clarify Your Purpose: Be clear on why you're attending and what you hope to achieve.
3. Craft a Clear Message: Know what you want to share about yourself or your work.
4. Practice Your Introduction: Rehearse your message out loud to build confidence.
5. Prepare Conversation Starters: Use open-ended questions, like, "What inspired you to pursue your career?"
6. Engage with Active Listening: Smile, nod and ask thoughtful follow-up questions.
7. Recognize Varied Skill Levels: Acknowledge that everyone brings different networking strengths and experiences—approach conversations with patience and an open mind.
8. Show Empathy: Respect differing experiences and perspectives without judgment.
9. Schedule Follow-Ups: Block time post-event to reconnect with key individuals.
Virtual Networking
10. Turn On Your Camera: Visibility fosters stronger connections.
11. Be Early and Stay Late: Use informal moments to build rapport.
12. Position Your Camera at Eye Level: This makes eye contact more natural.
13. Look at the Camera: Maintain eye contact instead of focusing on video tiles.
14. Optimize Screen Layout: Place attendee videos near the camera for easier interaction.
15. Ensure Good Lighting: Position lights to illuminate your face clearly.
16. Avoid Backlighting: Block bright light from windows behind you.
17. Adjust for Glasses: Angle lights to prevent glare on your lenses.
In-Person Networking
18. Plan Your Greeting: Choose a handshake, fist bump, or other appropriate introduction.
19. Step Out of Comfort Zone: Don't let nerves stop you.
20. Act Like the Host: (idea thanks to Susan RoAne) Make others feel welcome and comfortable.
21. Be Inclusive: Invite those on the fringes into your conversation circle.
22. Close Conversations Gracefully: Thank the person, acknowledge the goal to mingle and move on.
23. Use Your Smile: It's an easy way to show warmth and approachability.
24. Be Authentic: You don’t need to be perfect—present your best self.
Bonus:
25. Leverage Technology: Use networking apps or tools to connect before and after events, enhancing relationships beyond the initial conversation.
© Gilda Bonanno LLC - Gilda Bonanno serves as a trusted advisor to executives and entrepreneurs to transform their communication, presentation and leadership skills. She has worked with companies on 4 continents, from Chicago to Shanghai and Rio to Rome. The instructional videos on her YouTube channel have received over 1.5 million views and her e-newsletter has reached subscribers in over 45 countries since 2008. For other articles or to receive Gilda's e-newsletter, visit www.gildabonanno.com