How do you go about creating a professional network?

Potential obstacles to networking

Intimidation: overcoming the fear of meeting new people

First contact is often intimidating, and shouldn’t be an obstacle to networking. At a trade show, a professional event or a simple meeting, it can seem complex to strike up a conversation.

How can you overcome this apprehension?

• Prepare your pitch: be able to introduce yourself in a few words, your area of expertise and what you’re looking for.
• Opt for open-ended questions: this will facilitate your exchanges. This helps to establish a natural discussion.
• Use a VKARD : it’s a great way to make initial contact and break the ice for a first meeting.

Stand out from the crowd

Many people are looking to attract attention, so it’s important to highlight your uniqueness and capture the interest of your contacts.

How can you stand out from the crowd?

• Your attitude: don’t overdo it. Authenticity is the key to a trusting and lasting relationship.
• Listen actively to your interlocutors: if you understand their expectations and needs, you’ll be able to create a stronger bond.
• Have a Custom connected business card: it’s impossible to forget you with a modern business card that works with NFC technology. A great modern and durable tool for good first impressions.

Be organized: structure and optimize your efforts

Your networking doesn’t end with a simple meeting. It relies on rigorous follow-up and effective organization.
How can you make your networking productive?

• Prepare your communication media: connected business cards and QR codes are the best way to share information quickly and easily.
• Keep your contact file up to date: don’t hesitate to note relevant information about the people you meet.
• Personalize your follow-ups: if you target and personalize your follow-up messages, they’ll have more impact than a simple addition to LinkedIn.

The benefits of a solid network

If you strengthen your network, it can become an inexhaustible source of opportunities: job offers, partnerships, leads, recommendations and advice… More than a professional necessity, it’s a growth lever for your business. Keep a strategic approach in mind, so you don’t waste time, but don’t forget to nurture your relationships for lasting benefits.

Conclusion

Finally, maintaining your network is not a question of quantity, but of quality above all! Rather than accumulating contacts, create genuine, mutually beneficial relationships. With a little preparation, an open attitude and good organization, you can turn every encounter into an opportunity!