Why do many dread Networking?

Photo credit: youngsday.com

Networking is an interesting topic, often requested by clients to include in the training.  The tips shared to help them ease through a networking session often cracked them up and many experiences shared are close to the heart.  However, why is it still much dreaded when the real thing comes??

My husband is one who amazes me with his network.  My mum needed people who provided tentage to extend the front porch of our house during Chinese New Year.  Hubby called his friend from Grassroot community who could give us a reasonable rate.  Problem solved.  We wanted to visit Hongkong during one of their peak periods where there were many exhibitions going on, hotels were fully booked and those available were skyrock expensive!  Hubby called one of his friends from his Youthship programme which they attended together when they were in their 20s.  She was a regular at a hotel and had corporate rate!  We had priority in getting a room at a reasonable price! There were many more examples.

So what’s holding us back?  What shall we do to understand that there can never be enough to networking?  You can have a few good friends but you need a network to make life work. 

1)      Choose activities of your interest

 

Don’t go to an event just because your friend told you there will be all high flyers, businessmen or professionals of a particular industry.  Try golfing events, partying in clubs, wine tasting, volunteer at a charity organization or join special interest group such as drums or pottery etc.  You share the interest with people there and they are individuals with unique backgrounds too!

2)      Mindset

Avoid going to an event harboring on the fact that it will be boring since you won’t know people there.  Think of it as you will be there to learn to bake or learn a language and knowing people is part of the process!  It will be an interesting session!

 

3)      Open minded

The worse case would be you are sent to a networking session on behalf of your company.  You don’t have a choice.  Be groomed and go with a smile and tell yourself you have to make a friend at least (though it’s said to be a successful night if you made 3 connections at least).  With good personal grooming, dressing well and an approachable personality, someone else may make that first step and you will likely not be the only one feeling that way.

So go to any events or gathering with an open mind!  You never know that the social event may coincidently turn out to be a networking time for you!

About the Author : Sherrine Teoh is the Principal Image Consultant with Image and You Consultancy.  She runs regular training for corporations and institutions as well as Individual Consultations on Personal Grooming, Dressing and Social Etiquette.  She is also Mrs Singapore Queen of Hope 2012, Mrs Asia International All Nations 2012 and Mrs Photogenic 2012 (Mrs Asia International).