How to Improve Networking Skills

For many of us, networking skills are not something we are born with. You may have to work hard to come out of your shell and make the contacts you need to improve your chances on your career path. With a little practice and the willingness to get out of your "comfort zone," you can improve your networking skills.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Networking events
• Prepared introductory speech
• Business cards

Start Networking With Confidence

1. Compose a brief introduction for yourself. You may need to compose several versions of this speech, each customized to particular situations. For example, if you are interested in finding a new position or starting a new business, you might write two versions of your speech--one for employment contacts and one for venture capitalists.

2. Practice your introduction by standing before a mirror and paying close attention to your posture and stance. You should try to exude confidence by keeping your shoulders back and your eyes up.

3. Find a friend or someone you feel comfortable rehearsing your short introduction in front of. This should be someone who is willing to listen and give constructive criticism to help you perfect your introduction or icebreaker.

4. Find a networking opportunity that is low key and low pressure at which to unveil your introductory speech. This can be anything from a casual party to an alumni event for your college or university.

5. Dress the part. Your appearance makes up a large part of the first impression for a new contact. When networking for your career or business, choose professional attire that is suitable to the occasion and avoid over- or under-dressing.

6. Introduce yourself to at least one new person during your first networking event. By overcoming your fear or shyness, you will find the next introduction that much easier.

7. Improve the likelihood that the contacts you make will be fruitful by following up. Send a brief email or make a couple of calls, especially if you promised or were promised information or job leads during your initial conversation.

8. Keep getting out there. The best way to improve your networking skills is through real-world experience.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your introductory speech brief and to the point. Sometimes referred to as an "elevator speech," as it should take no more time to make your impression than a 30-second elevator ride, this introduction should be a pithy icebreaker, conveying who you are, what you do and what you need.