25 Ways To Master Social Networking

By Staff Reporter

Aug 07, 2012 12:30 PM EDT

Networking Made Easy

Be Open Source
Introduce contacts, never hoard them.
Master the Firm Handshake
Because wet noodles always flop.
Don't Trash Talk Others
It makes people think that they are next on the chopping block.
Always Offer Your Business Card
They are still used and they are still effective.
Always Get Their Business Card
So you don't rely on them for follow up contact.
Use Your First and Last Name When Introducing Yourself.
Don't be just another "Ann."
Know Your One Liner
Describe what you do in one pithy repeatable sentence.
Use Your Professional Photo
When connecting on social media, people want to see your photo, not your baby's or a company logo.
Keep it Positive
Save the car payment talk or your dog's medical issues for close friends.
Be a Helper
Like any currency, make introductions for others and they will make them for you.
Have a Signature Style
Dresses always. Fun necklaces. Hair in a bun. Choose one and stick with it.
Listen as Much as You Talk
Never leave a conversation without learning something.
Don't Stick to Those You Know
When at an event or business setting, branch out.
Keep In Touch
Make it simple. Email an article that made you think of them.
Seize Social Media
Each platform is a new channel to bond with your contacts.
Ready. Aim. Fire.
Target dream contacts and reach out to them cold via email or tweets.
Be Persistent, Not Pushy
Contact with frequency but don't stalk.
Read Body Language
If you see them retreat physically or offer a blank nod, change course.
Make New Friends But Keep the Old
Stay loyal to your original contacts. Don't leapfrog your way to success.
Be Gracious
Thank others for invitations, introductions and any other helpful act.
Pay it Forward
Networking is not an eye for an eye game. Help others and they (not necessarily the same others!) will help you.
Don't Oversell
Better to form a relationship and follow up with your pitch later.
Bring People Together
Host a gathering - a WAHM dinner or clients who love chess.
Say Yes to Invitations
The more out of your comfort zone you go, the more new contacts you will meet.
Don't Take it Personally
Pay no heed to a one time slight. If it happens more than once, forgive and file.