Do's and Dont's
The topic of networking is very diverse and complex, but can be a great advantage for all participants if implemented correctly.
To help you start your next networking event safely, we have collected a few tips below:
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Registration
Find exciting events that are interesting for you and register. Registration is mandatory for most networking events.
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Cancellation If you cannot attend an event spontaneously, please inform the organiser and cancel your registration.
Not showing up without cancelling is an absolute no-go.
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Preparation Don't just prepare for the announced topics. Think about how best to approach strangers and always have a few interesting facts about yourself and your company at the ready.
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Put your mobile phone away! Put your mobile phone away during the event. A person on a mobile phone looks distracting and busy and therefore does not invite conversation.
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Arrive on time Always plan enough time and arrive before the event starts. Most invitations often include an arrival time.
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Monologues Make sure you have a good exchange. If you only talk about yourself and your own company, you will quickly come across as closed.
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Smile Make sure you have a friendly facial expression that doesn't seem too forced.
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Volume Make sure that the volume of conversation is appropriate. Talking too quietly or too loudly can have an unfavourable effect on the conversation.
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Be brave Dare to approach people you don't know and start conversations.
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Table manners Make sure you have good table manners if there is food at the event. Tip: It is better to take small bites, because talking with your mouth full does not make a good impression.
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Listening Eye contact and counter-questions are essential. Show your counterpart that you are interested in the conversation.
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Drinking too much Do not get drunk. If there are alcoholic beverages at the event, it's better to keep a low profile. No one wants to leave a drunken impression.
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Help Offer your help in the form of advice or support. But be careful not to make empty promises.
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Taboo topics The topics should mainly be on a professional level. Political, religious or even family topics often offer potential for conflict and should be avoided.
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Follow Up
If contacts have been made, they should also be maintained. Social networks such as XING or LinkedIn can be helpful here.
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Networking as a sport Quality is better than quantity. Concentrate on a few interesting people/conversations rather than necessarily having a short small talk with all participants.
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source: Krennmair, S. (2019, 29. Mai). Netzwerken: Dos & Don‘ts. Workspace Wels. https://www.workspace-wels.com/blog/netzwerken-dos-donts/