A guide to networking for young professionals

However, striking up a conversation with a stranger can be a daunting task for anyone, and even more so if you’re an introverted person. The good news is that networking is different to being social, and there are basics that you can follow to make networking easier.

Here are our dos and don’ts to help you get the hang of it:

The dos of networking

• Be purposeful
  Set clear goals for what you want to achieve. This will guide what type of events you attend and the type of people you want to learn from. What is it that you want to get out of this? Are there specific people you want to talk to?
• Be authentic
  Be yourself and don’t try to be someone you’re not, as it will show and might hurt the connection. Focus on connecting with people who share your values and interests.
• Be prepared
  Look the part, be professional and ensure that your resume and LinkedIn profile are up to date. First impressions last, and if an opportunity arises, you want to take advantage of it.
• Follow up
  After making a connection, follow up with them within the next 1–2 days (while they still remember you). Send them a simple email thanking them for their time and use it as an opportunity to schedule a follow-up meeting to continue the conversation. This shows that you’re serious about building the relationship and that you value their input.

The don’ts of networking

• Don't be pushy or overbearing
  Not everyone will be interested in what you have to offer; it’s not personal. Remember that everyone has their own agenda and interests. Asking for too much too early could put people off, so rather try to find common ground to build a relationship and develop from there.
• Don't try to control the conversation
  While you want to share your values, interests and experiences, you don’t want to just talk about yourself. Listen to the other person, ask them questions and show interest in them and what they have to say.
  
  People don’t just hire for skill; they also hire for personality. By authentically engaging with someone, you make them feel heard or appreciated, and they’re more likely to remember you. Plus, you might learn something when you’re the one listening.
• Don't stay in an uncomfortable situation
  If someone is being rude, inappropriate or making you feel uncomfortable, thank them and leave. Even if it’s a well-connected individual, you don’t owe them anything if the situation is unhelpful and wasting your time.
• Don't fail to follow up
  Following up is essential to building a strong network. If you don’t follow up, you risk losing the connection. If you wait too long, you lose momentum, and they might forget, or it will be harder to keep the conversation going.

Top networking tips for introverts

1. Start small: reach out to people in your current network (former colleagues, classmates or friends) or just start attending events. You can build your skill and confidence levels from there.
2. Have ‘a script’: prepare some conversation starters and decide what questions to ask or what information you’re looking for. Having a plan and knowing what you want to say will help you break the ice, create a smoother conversation, and keep you focused so you can avoid awkward silence(s).
3. Bring a friend: ask someone to tag along and be your networking wingman. Choose someone who understands you and what you can offer so they can help bridge the connection. They’ll also be able to give some feedback on what you can improve on.

_{Disclaimer: This article is solely intended for information. It does not constitute financial, tax or investment advice or recommendation. Please speak to a financial advisor or registered financial professional before making any financial decision(s).}

_{Standard Bank, its subsidiaries or holding company, or any subsidiary of the holding company and all of its subsidiaries make no warranties or representations (implied or otherwise) as to the accuracy, completeness or fitness for purpose of the information provided in this article or that it is free from errors or omissions.}