Network or Die!
Since we’re apparently approaching hallowe’en, going by the number of corporate emails I’m receiving with a suitably ghoulish theme, I thought I’d scare you a bit.
If you don’t network, your business is going to die.
Yes, I can hear the bleating already. There is more to business than networking. Yes, indeedy. But, I’m writing about networking today. Universal comprehensiveness we shall do next week. 
Networking brings: contacts, suppliers, clients, support, new concepts, news… why wouldn’t you? If you find networking a little tiresome, frightening or confusing, read on…
Where should I network?
There are thousands of networking events in Northern Ireland every year. Often, they are referred to as business networking events, but really, they cater for the public sector, community groups and charities too. See our blog posts on Business Events in Northern Ireland for further information and links.
The most exciting – and dare I say it, disruptive – business networking event coming up soon is BizCamp Belfast. Read The Rise of the Unconference and 5 Reasons Why Networking at BizCamp Works to see what it is. What it is, is a seriously chilled introduction to networking, for the terrified. You can leave your corporate ass at the door.
And, minority group I know, but if you’re female, there are even networking events just for you. See Women’s Business Networks in Northern Ireland.
How should I network?
Attend an Open Coffee meeting. See this list of Open Coffees in Northern Ireland. It takes an informal format.
If you prefer a more highly structured approach, then BNI may be the style you’re after.
There are many other networks, ask around. We run two of our own, ScribeTribe (a network for writers) and BookCamp (for readers).
If you find networking a little daunting, take heart. There are two posts for you: 5 Ways Introverts Can Excel at Networking and Take the Work Out of Networking!
Should I do it online too?
I cannot stress the networking value of Twitter enough. It’s my favourite social networking site (or, micro-blogging platform, if you want to be pedantic about it). It’s where I get to have conversations with people I’d never otherwise meet, share and debate ideas, and announce and read news about all types of stuff. If you’d like to learn more, view this short presentation: Twitter: Understanding Its Networking Value (it takes a few seconds to load once you get to the page).
What about Facebook? We blog alot about Facebook. Whatever you do, avoid the 11 Ways to Lose Friends and Alienate People on Facebook.
I’ve connected with several people on LinkedIn this week. I use it mainly to collect old and new colleagues, suppliers, clients, reviews and testimonials. My Twitter feed is linked there, whereas it’s not posted to Facebook. To learn more about how to use LinkedIn for professional networking, see: 5 Ways to Set Out Your Manifesto on LinkedIn.
People look me up on LinkedIn before meetings and interviews, and I do the same.
Finally, it’s a great resource for those looking to fill a position, or find a specialist.
If networking online floats your boat, and you’d like to learn more, then get along to the Social Media Association for Business‘ next event. I’m currently on the steering committee, so get in touch if you want to learn more.
Is there any science to back all this up?
You’ve Got Networking on the Brain is my husband’s analysis of how business networking mirrors the structure of our brains. It’s a bit high-brow, with lots of links to go off and research.
Your thoughts on networking are welcome. What are your strategies for getting it right, and making every moment count?
