How to network in 5 easy steps
The world of networking can be a bit like a labyrinth: long-winded and tricky to navigate. But, do you ever wonder what would happen if you gave it a real go? The doors that can be opened by including regular networking events into your diary and frequently meeting new people will blow your mind.
We’re all used to connecting with people via social media, finding new opportunities online and giving people love and support in the comment sections on inspiring content, so why not be open to networking around your interests and making space in your life for new connections in any area you’re seeking to progress?
Whatever your reason for networking, we’re here to help you do so in a way that’s accessible, enjoyable, and not too time consuming! Here’s our simple guide to networking in 5 easy steps.
1. Identify your needs
It’s no secret that networking opens doors, but did you know that 85% of jobs are filled via networking? Here at HubDot, we believe in the power of networking not only for professional purposes, but to address a wide range of gaps in your skillset, knowledge, address books and day to day lives. The first step to being a networking success is identifying your needs. If you’re really clear about your intentions, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for -- it’s just a matter of time. That’s why when you network at a HubDot experience, we ask you to choose a Dot that reflects your mindset. As well as being a great way to break the ice, choosing your Dot helps you focus your attention on what you really want to get out of the session and ultimately will help people connect with you and your mission.
2. Nail your story
Your story is your compelling introduction. While it’s not entirely necessary to share a powerful story at every meeting or event, it’s always important to have it available should you meet that once-in-a-lifetime person or decide to reach out to a cold contact on platforms such as Instagram, Clubhouse or LinkedIn. It’s true what they say, that you only have one first impression. Working on your story and updating it regularly will make that first impression count each and every time.
3. Meet & Mingle
You can’t network without stepping out of your comfort zone and meeting new people. There are so many different ways to network and so many places you can go to make new acquaintances, but the pandemic has also opened our eyes to new possibilities. Pre-covid a surprising number of people cited bars and restaurants as great places to network. While the demand for online networking spaces has increased, we believe that these spaces can still be fun and social places to gather and meet new people.
We might not be sharing a plate of tapas, but we can still have that same face-to-face conversation that has proven so valuable to so many of us. That’s why we developed Piazza+, an experience that allows you to introduce yourself, meet and really get to the point without spending too much time searching for that special connection that could change your life. We make it really easy and, unlike our themed LIVE Piazza events, you get to choose how you interact and which themes you talk about.
4. Reach out
Sometimes you meet a person or stumble upon an organisation, and you’re so impressed by their presence that you almost forget to reach out and express your interest in connecting further. A lot of very impressive and successful people join our events, but instead of being intimidated by them, remember that they’re there for a reason and that they too are in search of something - it could be you! It’s not always possible or appropriate to steal focus in a group setting, so reaching out via a quick message (perfect if you’re on a Zoom call) or grabbing a moment of their one-on-one time is a great way to reach out and establish the desire for another conversation. Remember to tell them what drew you to them and why you’re keen to explore something further.
5. Follow up
So much of the important networking Alchemy happens after the event itself, but how many of us underestimate or forget to carry out the all-important follow up? These days following up doesn't have to be labour-intensive or particularly formal. You can send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn, you can send an email, or if you joined us at one of our events and didn’t catch someone’s details you can get in touch with us and we’ll make the introduction for you. However you choose to follow up, remember that it’s about continuing the conversation and developing a relationship. Your follow-up could include a pitch, a brochure of the work you do, or even a CV, but it should also include something undeniably appealing and very human: an invitation to talk about it.