A few words on Networking

Hey #PolishedPeople,

It's your girl, ThePolishedLady checking in and I wanted to share some words about networking. To some the word sounds scary or to others it's never ending and you end up in the same room as people over and over again. I been there too! Trust me just going to a networking event and shaking hands won't cut it.

Networking is like your test trial before the person you network with books you for your service or vice versa. You should try going to different networking events that aren't necessarily in your industry but you might fill the void of a service or product that is needed. For example, I recently attended a networking event hosted by National Black MBA Association that was held at Northside Bar & Grill. I have attended one of their more formal workshop events but this was my first time network with other members of the association that I didn't know.

Here's the Key : Make it a point to go speak to those individuals you don't know rather than chat with those who already know you personally. Give them an elevator pitch they can't help but want to hear more.

I did a lot of active listening in this setting. Once you find out the needs of a group or individual you can spearhead the conversation from there. You might offer the service or product that they. need but you might the connector to someone who can. Networking shouldn't be one sided.

If you are networking properly, you should have gain a new follower , email list subscriber or contact to help spread your knowledge with others. I did add new people to my email list from the National Black MBA association and I learned about how their mission aligns with my own: Professional & Personally. The next tip I would advise you to do if you follow someone on social media and your in the same room as them for the first time: congratulate them on their recent accomplishment you seen them post about after you introduce yourself. Why do this?

People love to be celebrated and once you show genuine love or interest for the things they've got going on in their lives. You will be a favorite of theirs next time you meet. The last tip I would offer is make sure you get one takeaway or gems that helps you progress. I like to share my takeaways on my LinkedIn profile. I get a lot of engagement on the posts I share with takeaways. That's my advice on networking and whether you use it or you don't hope you do one thing that makes you smile today.

Love & Light Polished People,

- ThePolishedLady