Absorb, Comprehend and Excel at Networking

Have you ever wondered how some professionals advance their careers so effectively? It’s not just their skills or talent — it’s their ability to build meaningful connections for career growth. Building authentic relationships is crucial for moving your career in the right direction.

Here are eight key steps to Absorb, Comprehend, and Excel — ACE your networking!

1.Be genuine and authentic

Absorb: People will more likely connect with you if they can see that you are sincere and authentic. Growing meaningful connections starts with being real and sharing your passions.

Comprehend: When you come in contact with new people, you can start by listening actively and showing genuine interest in their views and ideas. This lets you share your experiences and interests too.

Excel: At your subsequent networking event or meeting, practice being your authentic self. Share a personal anecdote and ask open-ended questions to get to know the other person better.

This will go a long way in fostering trust and creating memorable interactions.

 2. Add value

Absorb: An excellent way to make networking meaningful is to add value to others. Be ready to assist, share resources or offer your know-how without looking to get something in return. People are more likely to admire you and remember you this way.

Comprehend: You can offer a helping hand to colleagues or share resources that are relevant. By consistently providing timely value, you can position yourself as a dependable individual.

Excel: Reach out to a colleague or friend who can likely benefit from your assistance. Readily offer valuable resources or your assistance. Proactively providing value raises your standing and builds immense goodwill.

3. Follow up and stay in touch

Absorb: While making connections is recommended, maintaining those connections and nurturing them is just as important.

Comprehend: You can stay in touch with your network regularly by checking in, sharing updates and celebrating their successes. Following up keeps your connections active and meaningful.

Excel: After your next networking event, follow up with new contacts, express your appreciation and reinforce the connection. You can even send some personalized messages to remind them about the details of your conversation. Show appreciation for their time and be open to referencing useful information from the past conversation.

4. Seek out mentors and advisors

Absorb: Mentors and advisors can play a crucial role in your career development by providing guidance, support, and valuable insights. Identify potential mentors within your industry or organization and approach them with a genuine interest in learning from their experiences.

Comprehend: Building relationships with mentors enhances your knowledge and skills, helps you access valuable insights and expands your professional network.

Excel: Reach out to a potential mentor with a thoughtful message requesting a meeting or a conversation. Prepare specific questions to make the most of their insights. Show appreciation for their time and be open to feedback and advice.

 5. Communicate effectively

Absorb: An effective communicator is one who can talk persuasively and clearly. This includes  the ability to articulate thoughts concisely, express oneself powerfully and also listen to others actively. At networking events, communication and people skills are the cornerstone of professional success. You can make your mark by mastering these skills.

Comprehend: At every event, learn to listen actively by paying full attention to the speaker, hear them patiently and take your time to provide your response. Refine your oral and written skills by asking for feedback and continually polishing your communication technique.

Excel: Build trust and speak with clarity at your next event. Let your energy introduce you before you speak. Meet new people, practice active listening and take notes from every interaction.

6. Manage emotions

Absorb: The ability to manage not only your emotions but also those of others is fundamental to emotional intelligence (also known as emotional quotient or EQ). A high EQ helps you build strong relationships, resolve challenges and ensure a positive environment.

Comprehend: You can broaden your EQ by trying to see things from the other person’s point of view and reflecting on your emotional responses to the same. When you put yourself in the other person’s shoes and respond as they would, you have mastered empathy.

Excel: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on how you interact, react and emote when you are with others and in private. Make a note of any visible patterns and look for areas for improvement. This can result in creating stronger connections.