Networking: definition, tips & strategies for work and everyday life

Networking is more than just making contacts - it is a decisive factor for professional success and personal development. Many industry specialists swear that networking alone is the most important factor in personal growth. Whether you are looking for new career opportunities or want to expand your personal network, the right contacts can make all the difference.

In this article, you will learn why networking is so important and how you can use it to your advantage. If you want to learn how to network or are more of an introvert, this article can help you make real contacts. Whether at events, during your studies or on social media.

What is networking?

Definition of "networking" and basics

The term networking refers to actively building and maintaining relationships with other people in order to achieve both professional and personal goals. It is about creating a network of contacts that consists of various sources such as colleagues, business partners, friends and other relevant people. An important thing, because these connections can provide valuable information, support and even new opportunities.

The foundations of networking include open communication, trust and the exchange of ideas and experiences. It's not just about giving, but also about receiving - sharing common points of view can lead to a long-term exchange.

Those who forgo networking or only do it sporadically are missing out on numerous opportunities. Without an active network, you may stay in your own lane and miss out on important development or career opportunities. Private contacts, which can often open valuable doors, also remain unused. Those who do not network remain in an environment of limited information. Networking is therefore not only a professional necessity, but also a key to personal growth and success.

Differences: professional vs. private networking

Although professional and private networking are based on building and maintaining relationships, they differ in their intentions and approaches.

Professional networking aims to establish professionally relevant contacts in order to identify career opportunities and develop further. It is about exchanging knowledge, finding business partners or mentors. The approach is calculated and often takes place in professional contexts such as conferences or at networking events. Professional networking is often strategic and focused on specific goals such as career or business opportunities. Establishing yourself in a specific professional environment is important and can help young professionals gain a foothold in the professional world. At the same time it is

Private networking focuses on personal relationships and social connections. The goals are often more indirect and long-term, such as forming deep friendships or social support. These networks are formed on an ongoing basis in everyday environments such as clubs and are based on shared interests and values. Private networking is usually spontaneous and therefore less predictable. The focus here is on exchanges on a personal level in order to build long-term and trusting relationships - even outside of business.

Why is networking important?

In an environment where many people are competing for the same opportunities, customers or positions, the right network can give you a decisive advantage. Recommendations and partnerships from your network can help you to position yourself better in your market.

Networking: The basics

To give you a starting point, we explain the basics of networking and give you valuable tips and tricks along the way.

The first impression counts

How you approach your conversation partner can make a conversation flourish or sink. Always remember that you are a stranger to the person you are talking to. Therefore, first impressions are essential for making contacts. A business card from Lemontaps can be suitable for this to give your appearance a professional touch. Especially at networking events, you can stand out from the crowd.

Communication rules and attitude

In general, there is no rock-solid formula for successful networking. But that's a good thing: be individual and authentic. Approach things in your own way and don't be afraid to let your character speak for itself. And don't forget: Being nervous is normal. Stay polite and listen and people will want to talk to you.

Even if you want to sell yourself: show interest in the person you are talking to, otherwise your conversation will quickly become one-sided. Listen actively and ask about plans, interests or experiences. Your attention is guaranteed to be appreciated.

A meeting or conversation is just the beginning. After an initial contact, you should always follow up - be it with a thank you message, an email or another meeting. A consistent follow-up shows that you want to maintain long-term contact.

Networking strategies for your success

Networking is not only useful when things are going well, but also in difficult phases. A strong network can not only help you to overcome challenges, but also serve as support in times of crisis - be it through new ideas, cooperation or moral support.

Online networking

Networking is particularly easy for people starting out in their careers and inexperienced people. Social media is usually one of the first places to go. Platforms such as LinkedIn and Xing come to mind first, but Instagram, Facebook and co. can also be used to network.

LinkedIn is the world's most successful career platform for networking. If you need tips on how to make contacts efficiently via LinkedIn, read our guide on business networking on LinkedIn.

Offline networking

If you frequently attend events such as trade fairs or workshops, you will need to approach people to expand your network.

Write to relevant contacts in advance on the trade fair app:

Contacting potential customers in advance can warm up your counterparts for you before the event even begins. For example, invite interesting contacts to your stand. This demonstrates hospitality and shows that you are not trying to hide, but are proud to present your brand. You can make a great impression with a small goodie - in our case, this was one of our wooden NFC cards.

Be proactive:

Addressing people passing by can be a quick hook for a good conversation. Even at a trade fair, it is logical that many people from your target group will be there. This allows you to make contacts quickly and find out more about the business objectives that visitors are pursuing. However, don't be intrusive and respect the opinion of your counterpart.

Capture leads correctly:

Most deals are closed in the follow-up - so you should make sure that you capture your leads correctly. These are the basis for how well you can maintain your contacts. This is where a digital business card from Lemontaps comes in handy. It allows you to easily record the contact details of your leads. You can also add important points to the notes immediately after the conversation so that you don't forget what it was about. You can then transfer the contact directly to the CRM. The follow-up email is then sent automatically. So you are guaranteed to be the first message in your lead's inbox.

Long-term care

Long-term maintenance is built on trust. See networking as a two-way relationship rather than a means to an end. Offer help or useful information before asking for something. Giving without immediate expectation can deepen the relationship.

Successful networking takes time. Do not expect immediate results or direct benefits. Build up contacts without hoping for quick benefits. Patience pays off in the long run. If you want to know how you can do business networking with your cell phone, take a look at our article on this topic.

Networking for introverts: how to proceed skillfully

Networking can be a challenge for introverts. Focus on quality rather than quantity and concentrate on a few in-depth conversations rather than superficial small talk rounds. Prepare yourself by researching information about the participants and the event in order to find specific points of contact. Also take the opportunity to make contacts online, as this is often less overwhelming. Give yourself a break to recharge your batteries - even introverts can shine when networking.

Common mistakes when networking

When networking, the way you present yourself is of great importance. There are no-gos that you should avoid in order not to offend other people.

You must avoid these mistakes

Precision and clarity: Make sure you express yourself clearly and comprehensibly, especially when it comes to your own goals or interests. Avoid vague formulations or unclear wishes. Precise statements help to understand the topic and recognize the benefits.

When networking, many people also have a lot of time on their hands. Be careful not to overburden your conversation partner or take up too much time unnecessarily. Show that you value and respect the other person's time by communicating concisely and purposefully.

Network regularly, not just when you need to: Networking should be an ongoing process, not just an occasional activity. Maintain your contacts regularly, not just when you need something. A quick message from time to time can help keep you connected and shows interest in your contacts' lives.

Networking is not just limited to face-to-face meetings or business events. You can also use online platforms such as LinkedIn, e-mail or social media to maintain contact with your network.

Data protection: Data protection is more important than ever these days. It is therefore essential to ensure that you comply with the current regulations. The GDPR is the most important basis in this area. With Lemontaps, you can ensure that you comply with all current data protection guidelines. The platform is GDPR-compliant and ISO 27001-certified and therefore meets the highest security standards.

Open the door: Let the conversation unfold naturally. Don't start the first sentence with a sales pitch or what skills you have. This gives other people the impression that you are just trying to make a name for yourself.

Your networking checklist

To summarize everything once again, here is your checklist for your personal network:

Networking checklist: Successful networking made easy

1. Set clear goals: Define what you want to achieve. Examples include making new contacts or expanding your knowledge. Clear intentions help to focus conversations and find relevant contacts.

2. Preparation: Research the event and the participants so that you can conduct targeted discussions. A prepared conversation can open new doors for you and demonstrates professionalism. If necessary, also prepare a short pitch.

3. Authentic appearance: Be authentic and show genuine interest in the person you are talking to. Authenticity creates trust and promotes the development of a long-term social network.

4. Active listening: Listen carefully to the other person and ask specific questions. This shows respect, which has a positive influence on the dynamics of the conversation.

5. Have your business card ready: Have your digital business card ready to maintain contact after the event. This is particularly recommended for networking events.

   

6. Follow-up: Get in touch promptly after the event to continue the conversation or to thank you for the meeting.

7. Use social media: Use social media such as LinkedIn to consolidate contact. LinkedIn is the largest network for career and business networking.

8. Be open-minded: Be open to different topics of conversation and thoughts, even if they do not directly coincide with your ideas. Unexpected conversations can take important turns.

9. Long-term thinking: Maintain and invest in your contacts. Your network is valuable, treat it as such.

Conclusion

If you want to learn to network, the main way to improve yourself is through contact with other like-minded people. Whether you're at university or at an advanced stage of your career, connecting with people gives you access to different areas of life that couldn't be more valuable. If you apply our tips and tricks, you will find it easy to make contact with others.

Looking for support in building a network? With a business card from Lemontaps, your data is always at your fingertips. Directly on your cell phone and quickly accessible. Try our card now for free!