No matter how shy or introverted you are, everyone has the potential to master the art of networking.

To warm you up to the concept, below are some tips the master’s of networking use:

1. Relax, smile and focus on enjoying the social side of the function or event you are attending – be your natural self and don’t try to be someone or something your not
2. Look for familiar faces and work on building further relationships with your existing contacts
3. Have a plan that covers who would be a great contact, who would you like to meet and what do you want to achieve from your networking activities
4. Always use a strong, confident hand shake and establish eye contact with a smile
5. Develop a range of key questions you feel comfortable asking others to use as good ice breakers
6. Focus on finding out more others and learning about what they do rather than pitching or trying to sell a product or service
7. After events, always follow up efficiently with promises and new contacts you have made
8. Have varied 30 second spiels to use about who you are and what you do that you can pitch effectively to different audiences so that they are relevant.
9. Always take a good supply of business cards with you to events and functions
10. Always recognise that everyone you meet has the potential to become an important networking contact
11. Always look for a ‘win win’ - ask how can each person I meet benefit from connecting with me and who can I connect them with that would also be beneficial
12. Always conduct yourself professionally and with integrity

Your success as a master networker will simply come down to clever conversation starters, showing an interest in others and knowing when to talk about yourself. People who are great listeners usually become better conversationalists and ultimately opportunities result through your ability to build effective relationships with others and establish your network of contacts.

Some great networking ice breakers for you to try:
• “Hi, I’ve not meet you before, I’m ......”
• "Hi, what business are you from?”
• “What do you do there?”
• “How did you get into that?”
• “Is anyone else from your organisation here today or are you on your own?”
• “Have you been to one of these events before?”
• “Have you enjoyed today’s event?”
• “Is there anyone you are looking to connect with here today?”

Should you require assistance with developing your networking skills and expanding your network of contacts, contact Wendy Fogarty from I&IBS on 02 42832221 for a 2 hour consultation on how to unlock new opportunities and help you strengthen your professional presence at events. From only $220 incl GST, this is a smart career investment for business owners and executives to make on your journey to success.