Career-minded professionals know that strong business networking skills form a critical part of their personal development. Through business networking, individuals can connect with like-minded professionals in order to share information, advice, and experience. Networking commonly yields significant new business opportunities.

In order to develop strong business networking skills, it is important to consider a number of key points.

Personal behaviors

Business networking relies on some key personal behaviors. It is vital that you build honest relationships with your network, built firmly on trust and co-operation. You must see this as a two-way exercise, and should continually identify opportunities to support others, as well as seeking support yourself. Many of these relationships will build over time and that process will evolve around authentic experiences. Your goal is to become known as a strong, reliable resource for others to tap into.

Maintaining contact

How you maintain contact with your network will dictate the level of success that you see from your activities. Some of your contacts will be people that you see almost every day, whereas others will require specific contact, through networking meetings, appointments, or just a simple telephone call. You should schedule these events well in advance to ensure that you maintain contact with your most valuable contacts. When you have scheduled appointments, make sure that you always attend and that you demonstrate a commitment to keeping in touch.

Identifying different events

There will be many opportunities for business networking, to the extent that you will often have to prioritize those that are of the most added value. Specific networking events can be very useful, because they pull together a large group of like-minded individuals. Opportunities are not always so clearly marked, however. A seminar or conference may offer networking opportunities with key contacts, too, and don’t underestimate the importance of regular business meetings or meeting up with associates for a coffee. Networking operates on a number of different levels. Sometimes, a more personal meeting or conversation can be more fruitful than a larger group discussion.

Generosity

Business networking relies on your ability to be generous with others. Give your time freely and willingly, and make a concerted effort to make space in your diary for your contacts. Share your knowledge and expertise in a way that encourages others to approach you for advice. Seek out volunteering opportunities that might connect you with a new group of users. Look at this process as an investment. By investing your time and experience, you will reap benefits.

Reliability and enthusiasm

Business networking should be an enjoyable experience and not a chore. You should be positive and upbeat about meeting new people and making new connections. When you have made a new contact, follow up with a short email or telephone call just to reiterate that you enjoyed meeting the person, and to suggest how you might collaborate further. Reliability is vital too. Always do what you say you will, when you say you will do it. Follow up on all referrals proactively. Don’t wait for other people to get in touch with you.

Business networking can be a rewarding exercise, which genuinely develops your professional capabilities and career experience. Target your efforts in the right way and focus on the key skills and behaviors required to ensure that you make the most of the time you spend networking.

“Many fine things can be done in a day if you don’t make that day tomorrow” Mark Twain