Creating the Right Impression for Networking Mastery There are huge opportunities for business and careers when it comes to networking. In fact, a staggering 88% of professionals consider networking to be crucial in furthering their careers (GrowMap, 2020).
While it’s great that most of us are aware of the importance of networking in entrepreneurship, the problem is that most of us dive headfirst into it without pausing to think about first impressions or what we really want from it. Yet it’s the impressions we instinctively evoke in others that form the foundation of successful networking. By ‘networking’, I’m not talking about simply rushing around and trying to shake as many hands as you can in as little time as possible – what I mean is that we truly show up in a way that resonates positively with others. How will you make people remember you for all the right reasons?
Next time you step into the room, consider the energy you bring into it. Do you exude enthusiasm and positivity? Or do you speak negatively, offloading onto others so that they quietly start to dread speaking to you? Be really mindful about your energy every time you meet someone new. What would you love them to say about you if you were to leave the room?
Align your energy with your intentions – if you want people to feel positively about you, make sure that’s reflected in what you say and do. With everyone you meet, make them feel as though they’re the only person in the room. While you won’t get to talk to as many people by doing this, I promise you that the quality of those relationships will far outweigh how many business cards you swap or numbers you exchange.
