How to Network and Exchange Services

If you have people skills, you should have no trouble networking. Each of us has something to offer the other and you never know when it will come in handy. You may not need to know a graphic designer now, but the day you need help with your website, you would be glad to call that person "friend." Read on for a few ways to increase your networking skills and become a more connected person.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Business cards
• Marketing plan/press kit/marketing kit
• Resume
• Professional attire
• List of networking events relative to your field
• Smile and great attitude
• Portfolio or professional carrying case

1. Search the Internet or subscribe to email newsletters relative to your field. These techniques will keep you aware of networking events and opportunities.
2. When you have found an event you want to attend, plan ahead. Have copies of your resume ready as well as business cards and your press kit, if applicable.
3. Plan a few ice-breakers into a conversation. You cannot just walk up and offer your card to people in the middle of a conversation. That is simply interrupting and bad manners. Act out your ice-breakers with friends. Did it rub them the wrong way or did it lead to a conversation? You can use even the simplest, "I also write/edit/sell. Here's my card in case you need some work done." "I have also ______. Do you usually use freelancers or staff?"
4. Exchange business cards and media/press kits if relevant. Make sure to put their business card in an important-looking place, not just stuffed into a purse pocket. The person will not take you seriously if you appear disorganized or as if you are not taking them seriously.
5. Remember names. Make a list if you have to.
6. A few days after the event, make a follow-up email or phone call. Most people prefer an email. Simply state that you enjoyed meeting them (include when and where in case they met many people like you that day) and what was unique that you spoke about. State that you would like to speak to them again sometime about the chance of working together and what services you offer.
7. Stay in touch with a follow-up every few months to keep the contact fresh. You never know when it will come in handy.
8. If you have friends or acquaintances that have services or connections you need, make sure to take advantage of these opportunities as well. I have a friend who is a photographer and another who is an illustrator. They have exchanged services a few times. The illustrator has designed invitations and cards for the photographer and the photographer has created high-def photos of the artist's work. Take advantage of these types of connections when possible. It will save you money and lead to other opportunities. If nothing else, it can help build both of your resumes and portfolios.

Tips & Warnings

• See my article on creating a marketing plan.
• Keep business cards in a Rolodex or other organizer. Make notes on the back of when and where you met this person or how you can remember them better. Note the dates of when you contacted them so you do not forget and contact them more often than they would prefer.