How can you network effectively outside of traditional events?

Every meeting by observation is an opportunity to interact to know the other person. Casual meet at chai shop i interacted with a person who is into selling medical promotional manager could have a conversation when he was asking for chai in my native language. Myself instantaneously asked from which place he was ..and he was conversing my native language. While speaking we stay close to each other place and learnt he is from medical industry and instantly told i have a buyer or some one who could be interested. He came and met the person i introduced along with his Boss who got interested in my services. Myself bagged a contract with this small chai place opportunity. As per me networking is start speaking up every opportunity you smell.

Often networking is confused with how many connections one has on LinkedIn or any online media or professional circle. Networking has to be based on an objective that is rooted in professional growth or knowledge. Also both the parties need to be invested in that common objective.

Networking beyond traditional events is about finding common ground and shared interests. Here in Memphis, basketball unites diverse professionals. Engaging with local basketball groups allows me to connect authentically. For instance, through the Memphis Rebounders, I've forged valuable connections and now as VP I am front and center with a diverse group of professionals. By embracing our shared passion, we build relationships that extend beyond the court, fostering a strong professional network. This approach emphasizes authenticity and mutual interests, making networking meaningful and impactful.

There are many ways to build your network outside of the traditional events. A great way is attending industry/business events i.e. Legal IT Expo, where you'll meet senior tech professionals and lawyers. There are so many of these types of events across all industries. You'll connect with people in speaker sessions and at the various stands. This way, you can target the specific industries where you want to grow your network. You can do the same via Professional Associations where you'll find opportunities to meet and connect with your peers. Remember, networking is not just about collecting contacts but about building meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships. Be genuine and show a sincere interest!

As an engineer, I've often found that our best connections aren't always made at big conferences or workshops. Sometimes, it's the unexpected chats over a shared coding challenge or geeking out over a new tech trend.

With so much networking happening through social media platforms, and still emerging from the pandemic times of isolation, in-person networking events are an energizing space where you can create meaningful connections in a technology-lite way.

Explore where people in your network meet on issues, to learn more and connect. Having done that, you can plan better your networking strategy and what you hope to gain - whether you are seeking a mentor, general advice, or possible job opportunities

When we think of networking, it can be easy to think of awkward happy hours with luke-warm drinks, sticky name tags, and small talk with strangers. But it doesnt have to be that way. You can strike up a conversation with the person behind you at the coffee shop, a fellow parent at a soccer game, or a friend at a party. Start with curiosity. Everyone has a story to tell. What is that person's story? You never know who you will meet or what role you will play in their lives or they in yours.

Networking is just like planting a tree for getting sweet fruit. It needs to be nurtured. Like in changing weather conditions we need to take extra care of the plant, same goes with networking, changing operating environment, different behaviour patterns, technology advancements and a lot more being dynamic; we need to adapt to different needs of surroundings to nurture our connections.

Like anything - networking is a habit to devote time and attention to. Professional relationships require attention and intentional energy to benefit those involved.

Yes! Win-win opportunities can come from new opportunities, and while you may feel like you are the only one benefitting in a networking scenario, think about ways that you can provide benefit within that interaction or at a later point in time. Your career has a long runway, so it may be weeks, months, or years into the future where you could give back to that person who invested in you.

Listen to people. Really deeply listen. They'll tell you how you can contribute. And thus, connect. *I didn't think I could get better at listening until I became a coach. So try harder if at first you don't seem to hear what is needed from you.

Often we shy away from follow ups. In some cultures asking questions or reminding someone is considered rude. Yet nothing works best than being persistent and giving respect to the other. When we are respectful of others time and honest to our ask, that's when the other person also will join in to contribute. Following up is the key to achieving end goal.

Networking is about building authentic connections. An effective way to network is to volunteer to support the causes you care for. The shared passion, enthusiasm, and common goal create a strong basis for relationships. When people come together with altruistic motives, there is more openness to collaborate and support each other and establish meaningful connections. Volunteering is a space where people come to share and support. One may also meet people from different walks of life and gain different perspectives.

Give up 'traditional' ways to know people. Ask 'who you are (besides your job)' instead of 'what do yo do for a living'? Not only it is a challenging way to present yourself but it is also an excellent way to find out a lot more about a person than 'assuming' how they are and what they want, based on their their current position.