Networking 101: Initial Connections

Networking is one of my favorite pastimes, so I’m going to start a series called Networking 101 where I’ll be sharing some of my top tips each week!

The first step to networking is introducing yourself to new people to expand your net of connections. Opportunities to meet new people abound when the world is your oyster, but only if you seek those opportunities out. 

Fortune favors the brave!

What are opportunities?

Opportunities are the chance to learn about people and their interests at an initial level of connection. Some of the most interesting people I've met have come through introductions in line at the store, in an elevator, or at a conference/event. 

The golden key to successful introductions is focusing on two simple traits: sincerity and curiosity.

Oftentimes, people are scared of appearing to be too inquisitive because it can come off as ‘nosy’. There is nothing, and I reiterate absolutely nothing, wrong with having curiosity about the world. Let me clue you in on a secret: people love to talk about themselves and their passions. You just have to know how to hone in on those passions, and how to spark that initial conversation.

I like to think of it as a form of dating; you’re dating for the intent of forming platonic business relationships and friendships. In order to make an introduction with potential new acquaintances, I find it best to engage in a process I call “MACKing”. I simply choose which rule fits best for the situation, “mack” on whomever I’m interested in meeting, and then respond with follow up questions to establish a deeper connection.

M.A.C.K:

The four entryways  to making successful initial connections.

Make a Statement

Make a general statement regarding an issue, topic, or a state of matters. If you’re toting a newspaper or magazine around, make a statement regarding an article you’ve just read. If the weather has drastically changed overnight (it just went from mid 70s to practically freezing here, thank goodness), comment on the weather!

“What do you think about this cold weather we’re having? I love it. Just yesterday it might as well have been summer and now it’s finally beginning to look like fall!”

“I can’t believe the Georgetown Cupcake girls are coming for a press conference tomorrow at this café! Will you be in attendance?”

Ask a Question

Find general ground and pose a question- it’s as simple as that! General ground could be as basic as asking whether or not they’ve heard of any good local boutiques; it could also be as in-depth as noticing that they have a iPad in their hand and inquiring whether the iPad is better than the Kindle (and if you find out- let me know). The key here is to find common ground, and to ask a question that requires a detailed response. Detailed responses allow for follow-up questions, which could be the start of beautiful conversations.

“I’m not from around here, but you look like you have great taste. Do you know of any must-visit stores within the area? What are your favorites?”

Compliment

You know what they say- every connection begins with ‘C’. Compliment, compliment, compliment! However, keep it sincere and genuine.

This is one of my favorite ways to reach out to new acquaintances. If somebody is wearing something chic or has a particularly stylish haircut/piece of jewelry/pair of shoes, compliment them! Then ask where they got the idea, or where they found it. In the process of making a connection, you make somebody’s day a little bit better. I’ve even gone so far as to compliment people on their choice of nail color, their intelligence, or their accent.

“Excuse me, I know we haven’t met but I love your accent! Where are you from?”

Voila. See? There’s your pickup line. A simple compliment could lead to so many things.

Kindly Interject

Have you ever overheard somebody discussing a topic or publicly stating their opinion on a situation, and you reacted by privately agreeing or disagreeing but didn't say anything? Next time, try talking to the person about it. 

If you agree with their viewpoint, state it and ask how they feel about topic X and Y in relation. If you disagree, genuinely (the key word is genuinely), ask about what leads them to feel that way about the matter. There is nothing wrong with this option as long as you stay genuine. This is an excellent way to gain new perspectives regarding the matter. If you have no opinion on the matter, ask them to inform you more about the situation!

“I can’t believe they closed down the entire shopping center for the next year!”

“I’ve actually heard about that too! Do you know when they plan to close it? I go there every week because that’s where my dog’s vet is located!”

Disclaimer: Do NOT use this when related to politics, religion, or other sensitive matters unless you agree. Even then, proceed with caution. This works best with current events and thoughts about non-sensitive topics.

After you have “macked” on your potential acquaintance and established an initial connection, use follow up questions to dig deeper and learn more about their interests, hobbies, backgrounds, and passions! Next Tuesday, I will cover how to successfully ask follow up questions that lead the conversation from an initial connection to a new contact and the successful way to trade information and stay in touch.

A domani!

Ciao,
M