In the last few years, with the rise of social media, networking has changed a lot. It used to be that as a job seeker or employee, you joined associations and tried to get invited to networking events where the who’s who of your industry would be. These days, networking is easier (and harder in a sense) because you have instant digital access to so many people. Regardless of that digital relationship, you still need ways to break the ice when networking – and more than ever, sincerity is essential. Check out these tips for ways to break the ice when networking.
Ways to Break the Ice When Networking
- Get a mutual friend, coworker of acquaintance to introduce you.
- If you’re networking via LinkedIn, send that person an interesting article that they might enjoy. Use that info to spark discussion.
- Simply introduce yourself. Whether in-person or a digital introduction – be straightforward.
- Think of it as a way to learn from someone else. In a nutshell, ask questions.
- Be friendly! People forget the importance of making general conversation at a networking event – ease into the business.
Do you have any other ways to break the ice when networking? I would love to know!
