Networking

TIPS
Linking: The Way To Go


The success of your event depends on your willingness to expand your networks.  For you to be able to connect with people and convince them to support you in your cause, you must practice being resourceful, inventive, creative and confident.

Here are some random tips you can do to start practicing for these desirable qualities:

1.  Invest on your social connections

This may refer to the connections you have right now, and potential connections that are available for you.  Sometimes, it is just as simple as talking to an old friend, an aunt or a far-flung acquaintance whose values are in great affinity with your cause. 

It is not that difficult.  Anyone can do this.

There are a lot of ways in doing this... you just have to flex your social muscles... talk to people, engage them in meaningful conversation.

It all starts with a 'Hi, how are you?'

2.  Add a personal touch

You may have a lot of ways of getting your message across:  posters, invitations, videos, brochures etc., but nothing beats a personal, direct approach to invitation.  It shows your friend that they are important enough not to be just a part of your "email forwardees". 

If in case that is impossible, write them a letter... with your hand and very nice (smelling) stationery.  It would be best if you hand it to them personally as well. 

If that is still impossible, call them, don't just send a text message. 

Take the time for them, and I'm sure they would find it be to say 'no' to you.

3.  Maintain a little black book

Your phone memory may seem like a good storage for your contacts' addresses but it would be better if you maintain a permanent address book--or something called a, 'little black book'.

This is important because not only is it a back-up in case, God forbid, something happens to your phone/ipod, but also an indicator of how large your network is. The more entries you have-the greater your social skills are. So hurry and get one (or make one) now!

4.  Keep in touch

Making friends is good, but remember to keep connected.  It's not enough to recruit people, we also have to keep them interested in our causes.  Keeping in touch, doesn't necessarily texting them forwarded messages every day (just because you have 'unli').  It means surprising them with a random act of friendliness when they least expect it.  For all you know, your thoughtfulness could be the highlight of their day.  Spread the sunshine and happiness around!

5.  Smile

By virtue of reciprocity, people smile back (they can't help it) when you smile at them.  This is the greatest secret in networking because this is the hook in which your social skills hang on. It's not only good for them, it's also good for you!

Rememember these five tips everyone, and happy networking!