When you think about it, making connections in a professional setting isn’t all that different from making new friends. The initial stages of both kinds of relationships rely heavily on first impressions. Those initial moments can set the tone for the future, determining whether the other person sees you as someone they’d like to get to know better or someone they’d rather keep at arm’s length. In professional settings, just as when you’re trying to make new friends, you want to present yourself as approachable, reliable, and interested in the other person.
Finding common ground is also crucial, whether you’re at a networking event or a social gathering. When you discover shared interests or mutual acquaintances, it can instantly make the other person feel more comfortable around you. It’s these shared experiences or interests that often lay the foundation for a solid professional relationship, just as they do when you are making friends.
Finding common ground
To truly connect with someone professionally, just as you would when making a new friend, it’s important to find those points of connection that you both share. Sometimes these are professional interests, such as being in the same industry or having a common goal in your work. Other times, it could be personal interests that crossover into your professional lives – perhaps you both enjoy running marathons, or you’re both passionate about environmental conservation. These shared interests provide something to talk about and work on together, which can strengthen the connection-building process.
The art of listening and why it’s your secret weapon
In any relationship, listening is key. But in the professional world, it takes on an even greater importance. When you listen actively to someone, you’re not just waiting for your turn to speak – you are genuinely interested in what they have to say. This signals respect and can make the other person feel valued and understood. In professional settings, where everyone is eager to share their thoughts and ideas, being known as a good listener can really set you apart.
Active listening involves more than just hearing words; it’s about understanding the message behind them. It requires full concentration, understanding, responding, and then remembering what is being said. This also means being mindful of non-verbal cues such as body language and facial expressions. When practiced well, active listening can lead to deeper understanding and better connection-building in your professional relationships.
Networking without the awkwardness
Networking events are notorious for being awkward affairs where everyone seems to be vying for attention. However, they don’t have to be uncomfortable if you approach them with the right mindset. Embrace your curiosity about people and their stories rather than focusing on what they can do for you. This shift in perspective can turn a potentially awkward encounter into a pleasant conversation and pave the way for a natural connection.
Embrace your curiosity
Curiosity is a powerful tool when it comes to networking. When you meet someone new, ask questions about their experiences, challenges, and successes. Not only does this help you find common ground, but it also shows that you’re interested in them as a person, not just as a business contact. People are usually eager to share their stories and may reciprocate by asking about yours, which can further the connection-building process.
Following up without feeling pushy
After meeting someone new at a networking event or through a mutual contact, the next step is following up. This can be tricky – you don’t want to come across as pushy or overly eager. However, if done tactfully, following up can reinforce the initial connection you made. A simple message expressing enjoyment of the conversation and suggesting a further meeting for coffee or lunch can be an effective way to keep the relationship moving forward.
It’s important to follow up promptly while the conversation is still fresh in both your minds. Waiting too long can make it seem like an afterthought. A follow-up is also an opportunity to bring up any ideas or topics you discussed that you would like to explore further. It’s these ongoing conversations that help build stronger connections.
Keeping the connection alive and genuine
Like any relationship, professional connections require nurturing to stay alive and grow. This doesn’t mean constant contact; rather, it’s about maintaining quality interactions over quantity. Reach out periodically with updates or articles that are relevant to their interests or field. Congratulate them on their accomplishments and offer assistance when they face challenges.
It’s essential that these interactions remain genuine. Genuine interest fosters trust and respect, which are the cornerstones of any strong relationship. By keeping your professional relationships authentic, you ensure that they will be valuable and lasting connections.