Why It Pays to Network Offline
Today, most connections are made online but how strong are those ties, especially when it comes to advancing your career? One networking expert says if you want to break through the crowded digital landscape, it’s best to do it the old-fashioned way.
You’ve been on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter for, what, a few years now? You probably have tons of “friends” and “followers.” Ask yourself this questions however: how many of those connections have led to opportunities. If the answer is very few, it could be evidence that -at the end of the day – no networking works like the up-close-and-personal kind.
Faith McKinney is an expert in connections and radical PR. Known in some circles as “The Great Connector,” Faith is also the author of the upcoming book “Schmingling- The Art of Being Well Connected,” due out in August. From hosting years of “Successful Thinkers” networking events in Indianapolis, McKinney says she’s learned that the strongest relationships are built face to face, shoulder to shoulder.
There’s More to Gain Offline
“Social networking is great but it lacks that personal touch,” says McKinney. “You may get feedback right away with Twitter and Facebook, and that my feel great, but the connection usually isn’t that deep. You must take your networking offline.”
She says this kind of networking is important because, whether we know it or not, our professional lives are dominated by relationships and lasting impressions. “You do business with people you know like and trust,” says McKinney, “and networking face to face is the best way to establish a trusting relationship.”
Overcome Your Nerves
So what about for those of us that get a little nervous when it comes to informational interviews, mixers and conventions? McKinney says that these environments tend to make us feel awkward because they’re contrived and most people don’t know how to appropriately interact when lines between professional and social are blurred, when there isn’t a script we’re used to following.
“My advice from being really introverted myself is to make sure you’re comfortable in all other ways,” she says. “Be well groomed and put together. Make sure your clothes fit comfortably. Don’t carry a lot of things that can weight you down and try to eat before a networking event. You want to feel free and relaxed and that will make it a lot easier to approach people. Also, remember that everyone has the same anxiety.”
A Letter Opens Doors
When asked what novel tips she has for face-to-face networking, McKinney’s answer might surprise you. “Snail mail,” she says. “In an age where everything is digital, a handwritten note will really get you noticed.” You’ll really get noticed by, perhaps, acknowledging recent news for them professionally like a promotion and an achievement. A simple “congrats” is fine but also make an effort to share a little about yourself and express your desire to connect. McKinney says a few messages like this spaced out over a few months can be the foundation of a strong connection that could lead to your next great opportunity.
Photo Courtesy, Garfield Anderssen.
