Networking: Tips, tricks, and stuff all of us should know

“Oh boy! Networking!”

Unless you’re one of those folks who never got over their stint as rush chairperson for their sorority or fraternity during college, chances are that these words have never come out of your mouth ... or at least not without a strong hint of sarcasm. In the eyes of technical communicators -- typically an introverted lot -- networking seems daunting: going into a room full of 100% extroverted strangers, bragging about yourself, sucking up to others, and then asking for a job lead.

Wednesday night, Scott Ingram, founder of Network in Austin, dispelled some of those perceptions in a presentation to STC Austin members and guests titled, “Real Networking Doesn’t Happen at Networking Events.” After getting through the irony that this presentation was delivered at ... a networking event ... Mr. Ingram made some very solid points about what networking really is. In short, networking is about building relationships and helping others. Like anything else, he said, networking uses its own form of currency that puts a premium on “paying it forward.” You may not be able to directly help the person who helps you, but you certainly may be able to help others.

Some other pieces of wisdom dispensed by Mr. Ingram included the following:

• Networking events are not necessarily bad, but you need to be consistently present, and not just at the networking events. One way to ensure more consistent involvement, he said, is to find something you are passionate about and network there. It doesn’t need to be a professional organization; it can be a charity, youth sports, church group, etc. You are more likely to be consistent a venue where you have a consistent interest.
• Follow up - ALWAYS. As you meet people and discuss topics, you may mention an article that you read, or a contact that you know that can help that person. Do not forget to send the link or the contact! One recommended practice is writing these deeds to do on the back of the contact’s business card. When you deliver what you promise, you get a good reputation.
• Networking is not about instant results. On average, you have to give three times more than what you receive. For example, for every three contacts you introduce to someone, you may get one contact. Stick with it, Ingram advises, because long-term, this ratio reverses itself.

Ingram revealed other tricks of the trade, but in general the best practices are really the things that most folks should apply to all areas of their lives: Give first, and the rest will take care of itself.

With that in mind we are looking forward to seeing you at our next networking event in December. Date and location are TBD, but please keep any eye on this blog and other STC communications for more information.