Networking is hugely important in business today, but not everyone is a natural at it. Sharon Critchlow compliance and operations director of Bristol based financial planners Citimark Partnership and a member of ACCA Bristol members' network gives some simple yet highly effective tips.
13 years ago when I moved to Bristol I was faced with the unenviable task of making new friends; not just personally, but professionally. Having recently moved in to the Financial Services sector I was facing the task in hand with a group of professionals, 90% of which are male and at least 10 years older than me. So with few obvious things in common, and having stood in the corner waiting in vain to be spoken to, I developed an action plan – as without one, my business would never take off. As with any process, the more you work it, the easier it becomes.
Top Tips
1 Practice with the home team. Try ACCA events as there are few natural networkers, your efforts will be really appreciated. Don’t want to speak to a total stranger? Try starting with the organiser of the event – they are there to put you at ease.
2 Seek out someone on their own and speak to them. A smile, eye contact and an outstretched hand are rarely ignored. You will not be the only one in the room who is reticent to make the first contact. In fact, it will probably be a relief to them.
3 Decide on your first line and be able to describe what you do. Practice it! “Hi, I am Sharon and I don’t know anyone here” usually works, but also “I thought I was never going to get here – the traffic is terrible!” is a favourite as it is likely to be a common experience.
4 Offer to introduce your new contact to someone else you know in the room – or ask if they know anyone that they can introduce you to?
5 Give them your business card and prompt theirs. Send them an email the next day, preferably link to them on LinkedIn. A quick one liner will suffice - “Good speaker last night – see you at the next one!” or offer to help with a bit of free advice as and when they need it.
6 Keep in touch from time to time – the odd article about their industry, congratulate them on their successes – carry on the conversation, but keep it light.
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