Meaningful Networking

Last week, we had a blast facilitating interactive networking stations at the Minnesota Women's Press Directory networking event. We set up the stations with fun, simple guided activities for participants to have meaningful interactions beyond just trading business cards. It was a pure joy to behold. Participants were really talking and getting excited by each other's work. Collegial and client relationships were being formed through real conversation and connecting. Numerous participants commented that this was the first time they actually enjoyed networking.

What was different? We suggested open-ended questions for them to talk about what was near and dear to their hearts with their work. We set a tone that made it easy for them to share about the personality of their work. And we encouraged them to offer each other continued networking, support and sampling of each other's services. All told, we assisted their opening up about why they do their work and what keeps them motivated. This led to real and meaningful connections.

Many of us tend to set our personality aside when we network. But personality is what makes us click more naturally with others. Have you ever been to a networking event that felt almost painful? I've been in several where it seemed everyone wanted to talk and get leads but few were sincere in really listening and supporting each other. What was missing in the networking was their personality, story and passion. Sure, they shared what they do and who they serve (and then madly passed out business cards). But the spark (other than their eagerness to sell) was hidden.

I don't know about you, but I'm much more inclined to make a referral or provide business to someone I feel a connection to. For example, I might learn that Jan works for XYZ Consulting to "get great results" for her clients. This is well and good. But when I learn that Jan was drawn to work with XYZ Consulting after desperately searching for this type of service herself, a story unfolds; I become more interested and suddenly want to help her along with her success. By getting a sense of her personality, I also am better able to identify what type of client would be a great fit for her.

As we facilitated the event, we were fortunate in another regard. We each had a role to play. That meant that each of our facilitators met (or was visible to) nearly everyone at the event. It made it easy for us to easily connect and draw in people we might not have otherwise met. At the next networking event you plan to attend, consider volunteering to help out. You might offer to help check people in or staff the prize drawing. When you combine having a role to play, sharing your personality and being genuinely interested in hearing and supporting each other, you are sure to have a meaningful and ideal way to connect.

Happy networking!