11 Habits The Best Networkers Have

11. Listening

Communication is a two-way street. There is no bigger turn-off than someone who loves to hear the sound of their own voice. Listening, and learning the art of it, is a habit worth forming. It is through true listening that one is able to ask the right questions and make a memorable impression that will lead to good follow ups, an increased ability to connect others, and stronger relationships. – Anapaula Lagarriga, BriteBoom / ActionCOACH

10. Being Curious

If you want people to respond, be curious about them, what they do, what they care about, what’s important to them. Ask questions. You’ll learn how you can connect them and how you can help them grow their business. Why? Being listened to feels so much like being loved that people can scarcely tell the difference. And you model that for them, and 90% of the time they’ll get curious about you. Try it! – David Taylor-Klaus, DTK Coaching

9. Getting To Know The Organizers At Networking Events

Both introverts and extroverts love this strategy. When you attend a networking event for the first time, know who the organizers are beforehand. Seek them out immediately, and after introductions and expressing your appreciation, say, “This is my first time here, who would be the best people for me to meet tonight?” You’ll also receive an influence bonus if the organizer introduces you around. – Tina Dietz, StartSomething Creative Business Solutions

8. Smiling

Networking is not easy for everyone. It can be downright terrifying. What puts one at ease is a nice smile. It welcomes others to either want to smile back or say hello. Once a person is at ease, a level of comfort is created. A simple smile can go a long way to opening the door to conversation, connection and possibly more. – Joyel Crawford, Crawford Leadership Strategies

7. Talking To More Than One Person In The Room

Good networkers will talk to many people in the room, not just one or two. They have a natural knack for sharing just enough information and understanding the ebb and flow of the networking conversation. There is a natural point where the conversation wants to end on its own; they recognize these moments, acknowledge them, wrap up the discussion and move on. They will reach back later if need be. – Steffan Surdek, Pyxis Technologies

6. Not Focusing On What Others Can Do For You

When people say you should network, what they mean is you should talk to others. The best way to network is to be interested in other people, ask them about what they do and how you can help them. Don’t focus on what they can do for you, but focus on them. People love to talk about what they are interested in, and it’s a great way to get to know them. – Marie Pawlak, Planning101

5. Connecting Others Together

We know the fortune is in the follow-up and you must listen attentively to what people need to help them… but great networkers know how to connect others with each other. People don’t forget those who help bring them business and help solve their problems. Being a connector is a great way to build a loyal tribe of people who will help you when you need to “cash in” your relationship currency. – Terra Bohlmann, BrightBound

4. Leaving Them Wanting More

The best networkers give instead of sell. When I walk away from a connection where someone has given me value for my time, I do not forget them. Giving includes listening, empathizing and sharing. The best networkers make their connections about the other person — not themselves. – Patrick Jinks, The Jinks Perspective

3. Being Consistent

Great networkers are always networking. Professionals who pursue networking only when they need something (e.g., a new job) typically don’t generate the same results as those who network continually and consistently. To raise visibility, network frequently. Create a reputation as a dependable contributor — someone who engages and shares — not just when a goal is trying to be achieved. – Adrienne Tom, CERM, CPRW, MCRS, Career Impressions

2. Staying Patient

Networking is simply making professional friends and acquaintances. Just like a friendship or romantic relationship, getting to one another takes time. Reach out to new contacts and follow up if you need to, but don’t force the relationship to develop at a particular pace. Successful people are busy and they may misinterpret your eagerness as an ulterior motive. – Lindsey Day, Magnetic Career Consulting

1. Following Up

It’s not about just forging a relation, it’s about fostering it. And the best networkers succeed at it by following up with people. They add value in their follow-ups. Whether it is introducing them to a new contact, sharing relevant articles, being a shoulder to cry on, or sharing pitfalls and inspirational moments, they keep in touch with people. They take the relationship to the next step. – Gia Ganesh, Gia Ganesh Coaching -VIA