Being able to network with professionals is an essential skill, especially if you are starting a career in a highly competitive field. After all, it is not just your skills that matter in your field of specialty; you also need to gather enough social currency so it will be easier for you to connect with organizations and individuals that can help boost your career. All you need to do is to develop your networking skills. Keep the following tips in mind:
1. Build a social media presence
Social media is crucial to relationship-building, as people are eager to know a lot more about others through their presence on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Focus on building a professional presence on social media. Make sure to add a summary, details about your professional experience, and the certificates, and awards you have received to your LinkedIn profile. You can also build your own professional Facebook page which you can use to post relevant stories, build your influence, and attract the people you will want to connect with.
An elevator pitch is basically a statement that introduces who you are and what you do. When crafting your elevator pitch, it’s always important to highlight the value that the other person is expected to gain in the long run. You can start by discussing your experience in your field or niche and creating a unique selling point that engages the needs of the potential contact. Don’t focus too much on your professional and academic credentials. Instead, look towards building a beneficial relationship. Once you have drafted your elevator pitch, you will need to put it into writing and practice saying it from time to time.
3. Know the best places to network
Now that you know how to present yourself perfectly, you just need to look for the best avenues where you can rub elbows with influencers, business partners, and advocates. With the COVID-19 pandemic putting face-to-face events on hold, you can still find people who are willing to connect with you through online conferences and webinars. You can also invite individual contacts over for a cup of coffee or arrange virtual meetings with people you met on message boards. Lastly, consider joining social media groups that cater to your niche. You will find plenty of people who are willing to share ideas or connect you with valuable contacts within their own networks.
4. Focus on presentation
A good part of networking involves building a compelling presence. Nothing attracts professionals quite like someone who exudes confidence and wisdom. Presentation is the key to your success, so hire a photographer who can take your professional portrait and reach out to companies like Wefixit & Weprintit to help you prepare your resume, business cards, and other eye-catching materials.
When it comes to unlocking massive opportunities, networking is one activity you will have to take seriously. Apply the tips above and grow your list of contacts who can help you shine.
