Networking is a awkward. I get it. It can feel salesy and fake. But I’ve learnt it doesn’t have to be.
I recently spoke on “Networking To Grow Your Business” at the Innovate Calgary Founders Forum and I wanted to share my learnings and experience.
Here are questions from the audience and my answers:
I’m an introvert, how do I network?
Introverts (like me) have an advantage in networking because we naturally have the right skills. We’re good listeners, we remember details, we ask good questions, and follow-up. Everything needed to make networking easier.
What’s the best way to network at a conference?
Walking into a crowded room or mingling at the coffee station making small talk can be daunting so here’s a better way. Prepare.
Before the event, find out who’s going, ask your friends, look up the sponsor companies, use LinkedIn and make connections.
Then arrange a meet-up or coffee chat to discuss one of the presentation topics. Make it easy to connect over an interesting topic.
How do I introduce myself?
First, learn about the other person. What are they working on? What are their goals for this year?
Now you have context, you can introduce yourself in a way that resonates.
Relate what you do to what they do.
Here’s a framework to introduce yourself:
“We help (market/customer) + (with problem) + so they can (benefits)”
E.g. “We help founders simplify technology complexity so they can scale their business faster and grow revenue”.
Hope this helps your networking!
What are your best networking tips? Comment below.
🛫Follow me for insights on getting technology to work for you, save you time and grow your business.
