Nathan Perez, principal of Career Innovation and co-author of the 20-Minute Networking Meeting, shares tips for successful networking meetings. Topics discussed include preparation, being concise, creating rapport, offering help, staying relevant, increasing opportunities, expressing gratitude, summarizing information, and career pivots.
Research the potential contact and be relevant when reaching out for a networking meeting.
Balance asking for help with building relationships by demonstrating curiosity and a desire to learn.
Deep dives
Setting up a networking meeting
When setting up a networking meeting with someone you want to meet and don't know, it is important to be relevant. Before reaching out, research the potential contact and identify what about their experience or background could be helpful to you. Write a short, friendly note explaining what you are looking for, who you are, and why you believe their background could be beneficial. Keep the note concise, about four to five sentences long.
Starting a networking meeting
To start a networking meeting, it is crucial to have an agenda and be prepared. Begin with a great introduction, engage in small talk to build rapport, and then give a 60-second overview of your background. Avoid providing too much detail and focus on highlighting the most relevant and important aspects related to your contact. By being concise and creating a positive impression, you can foster a meaningful discussion.
Moving from pitch to rapport
Transitioning from your background overview to creating rapport in a networking meeting involves being observant and adapting to the conversation. Utilize a handshake, engage in small talk, and find common ground to establish a connection. By showing genuine interest and focusing on the other person's expertise and experiences, you can create a natural and engaging discussion.
Asking for help and building relationships
When engaging in a networking meeting, it is essential to balance asking for help with building relationships. While it is important to have specific goals and information you want to gain, the focus should primarily be on relationship-building. Instead of solely seeking something specific, approach the meeting with curiosity and a desire to learn. Offer assistance in return for the information and time you receive, demonstrating reciprocity and a genuine interest in a mutual beneficial relationship.
There is so much that goes into having a networking meeting – from finding the right person to connecting with that person to getting a time on the schedule. There is a lot of time, energy, and logistics that go into making it happen. Then the day comes, you have the meeting, and that’s it. It feels like a dud. Yet, it’s not clear what went wrong. Nathan Perez, Principal, of Career Innovation, professional and keynote speaker, and Co- Author of the 20-Minute Networking Meeting, believes that you need clear prep, a solid plan, and more than a little gratitude. In this CareerCast, Nathan unlocks the mysteries of having an enjoyable, productive, and successful networking meeting that can become the start of an enduring professional relationship.
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