It is said that it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert in your technical area of competence. Networking is another skill that takes practice, so whilst it can be a bit daunting, networking can actually be fun.

1. Introduce yourself – walk up to a group and say “Do you mind if I join you?”

2. Ask questions – expand on the points raised and provide your own insights

3. Exit gracefully – “It’s been nice meeting you, I’m going to talk to a few others in the room”. Or suggest that you both go over and join another group

4. Follow-up promptly – email an article of interest and connect on Linked In

5. Weight of interaction – it takes time to build relationships so maintain contact though regular interaction.

To become a good networker you just need to be yourself, have great conversations and a personal brand that helps you stand out. So get out there and give it a go!

Taken from recent post by John Meacock from Deloitte – see full article here.