Networking is a way for you to make the maxim, "It's not what you know, it's who you know." work for you. Networking brings with it the added advantage of recommendation and personal introduction, which are always very helpful for developing business opportunities. Many of the behavioural principles apply to both social as well as business networking. Here are some quick tips for efficient networking.

1. 17 Networking Tips of
Successful People
Networking is a way for you to make the maxim, "It's
not what you know, it's who you know." work for you.
Networking brings with it the added advantage of
recommendation and personal introduction, which
are always very helpful for developing business
opportunities. Many of the behavioural principles
apply to both social as well as business networking.
Here are some quick tips for efficient networking.

2. 1. The hardest part is 'breaking the ice' so start out by finding the
friendliest face around.
2. An effective way to make a good, positive first impression is to
'communicate with your ears'. Start by asking questions and listening
intently. Remember, everyone is at the event to tell his or her story and
peoplegenerally appreciate your immediate curiosity. This person may not
be able to give you direct business but they can be a referral.
3. Start the conversation by asking what brings him or her to that party.
Become aware of their interests and repeat something important that he or
she said. Highlight what the two of you have in common in order to
establish a good rapport.
4. Be well read and well informed about current events, movies etc so that
you have something to talk about. Do however steer clear of sensitive
issues like religion and politics.
5. If it is all right with the host, then take a friend along for company. That
way you can still reach out to others but you'll have someone to do it with.
6. When in conversation with someone try to ask open ended questions to
help maintain a comfortable flow of conversation.
7. Maintaining eye contact when in conversation shows confidence and
interpersonal skills and also instills a certain level of trust and mutual
respect.
8. A handshake is the universal way of greeting people. Develop a
comfortable handshake and keep it consistent. Handshakes shouldn't be
too hard or soft.
9. When making introductions keep it brief and basic. Provide some
information about the people you are introducing to clarify your
relationship with that person.
10. Always carry your business cards and remember to give and receive
them with both hands with the writing facing the person. When at social
events it is imperative to wait for the right time to exchange them.
11. Never ask for free advice from professionals like doctors and lawyers
when introduced at social gatherings. Ask for a business card and make an
appointment for a later date.
12. Follow-ups are important. Send your new contact an email telling him
or her it waspleasure to meet them at the event, what you learned from the

3. conversation, and why you think it would be good to keep in touch. Be sure
to keep the relationship alive by setting reminders to follow up regularly.
13. In the business environment always arrive for meetings a few minutes
ahead of time.
14. Appear as professional as possible. Being well groomed and clean is
essential. Dress for your next job/promotion.
15. Adopt a "can do" attitude. Those who accept challenges and display
creativity are considered a valuable asset and are preferred in the social
sphere.
16. Be flexible. By remaining flexible and implementing change you gain a
reputation as a co-operative employee. You will also be considered a team
player.
17. Give credit to everyone who made a contribution to a project or event.
Don'tdifferentiatepeopleby position or standing in a company. It is simply
unprofessional.

4. Few More Our Trusted Customer