It’s not an uncommon sight; those super confident men and women cruising around the room at a function or conference or anywhere for that matter. What makes them tick? From cover girls to large, burley men, how do they all manage to do it? If you take a few networking tips to heart then you too can be that charmer who people warm to and feel happy welcoming you onto their team or higher up the corporate ladder.

You might dread the thought of going up to someone to chat about the industry and life in general but it’s something you just have to do. Business networking tips are all about creating confidence. You’re not born with it, but you can develop it.

You Rock

We’re not all business moguls but we do all have special talents. Whether it’s budgeting or organisational skills, there is something we do very well. When you’re in a social situation looking for networking tips just bring these skills to the front of your mind, even if they’re not relevant right at that moment. If you focus on what you’re good at you’ll naturally exude a feeling of confidence unlike you’ve ever done before.

Watch Out

Observing how other people behave and network does not make you creepy, if done correctly. Take note of someone you consider to be confident and identify certain mannerisms that make them appear that way. It’s a valuable networking tip and something that you can implement quite easily, whether it’s the use of hand gestures or referring to the person by their name during conversation. Don’t get too carried away though. There is such a thing as being over confident when networking and don’t take tips from the few in the office who are notorious for it.

Open Up

Be open with people. Being an introvert doesn’t necessarily mean that you come across as the shy, silent and mysterious type. Adopt this when networking and you’ll usually just come across as an introvert, which isn’t a great thing. All networking tips will place emphasis on communication with the other person. They can’t read minds and it’s important to get across the fact that you’re enthusiastic about the value you place on them as a contact.
The simplest networking tips are usually the best. There really isn’t too much to the art. It’s about being warm, honest and open about your skills, without being arrogant. Ok, maybe it’s a little bit easier said than done, but practice makes perfect.

Dave Peterson has a vested interest in business communications as well as workplace environments. His work has taken him all over the world where he might be searching for executive suites Denver one day and then office space London the next.