How to Network With Business Executives

Learning to network with business executives is an essential part of business success. There is some truth to the old saying: "It's not what you know, but who you know." Networking doesn't come easy to some. The key to successful networking with business executives is learning to use your intuition when you network to connect with those who can help you achieve your business goals.

Instructions

1. Understand the motivation of the other person. When you network with business executives, think about what their objective is in making a connection with you. Talk to them about the topics they find important.

2. Create an opener to use when you introduce yourself to others. When you don't have to think so hard about what to say, your mind is free to "feel out" the person you meet.

3. Give 100 percent of your attention to the person you speak to when you network with business executives. People like to have your complete attention when you speak so don't keep looking around for the next person to meet while talking with someone.

4. Think about your agenda when you network with business executives. It is a given that you will meet new clients and make connections, but look for other networking objectives that could become conversation starters when you introduce yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• If you forget the name of a person while networking, stop midway into your conversation to say, "Tell me your name again," repeat it back to them and just continue talking. This is a sign that you are only human.

• Always ask for the person's name when introducing yourself as you network with business executives.