Networking both digitally and in person can provide you with great opportunities when it comes to elevating your career, making valuable connections, gaining insight and advice from your mentors, and so much more. Here are just a few ways to efficiently build your professional network:
Attend Networking Events
Whether you go in person or join via your laptop, attending networking events is crucial. This will give you a chance to talk to people in your profession, learn about what your competition is doing, and more. Particularly when attending in-person events, be sure to make your presence known by wearing an Avery® Self-Adhesive Name Tag.This will allow others to feel comfortable approaching you and will increase the likelihood of them remembering who you are
Stay Organized
It can be easy to meet so many people and lose track of your contacts, follow-up opportunities, and more. A great solution is to keep a pocket-size planner near you while you network so you can quickly write down any important information after each interaction. A great option is House of Doolittle’s Daily Appointment Planner.
Present Yourself Well
Regardless of how you’re choosing to network, it’s important to present yourself well. Be sure to be dressed appropriately and be polite throughout every conversation you have. This will show others that you respect their time and value what they have to say. Furthermore, it’s important to actively listen to each person you meet by asking questions and staying focused. When you show each person you meet respect, they’ll be more likely to reciprocate the same kindness back to you.
Maintain an Active LinkedIn Profile
When it comes to networking digitally, LinkedIn reigns supreme. Be sure to keep your account active, making new connections as you go and sharing updates on your career. This will ensure that anyone visiting your profile has the most up-to-date information on you, and will also allow you to make connections with people you respect in your profession.
Happy Networking!
source: AOPD
