Become a master networker

A lot of us in our early twenties aren't very much in touch with the movers and shakers of society. We may know some only on Facebook but that hardly counts. In the real world, getting on good terms with the power wielders can do wonders for personal growth. And when we grow, we in turn become someone who can help others. Sounds fair. So how do we go about the first step?

The differences

You hear about all these jobs being offered to your friends while you have the skills but don't get the calls. Sometimes it's just a matter of connecting to the right person. It's a dog eat dog world out there and the scores of similarly skilled people make it difficult to spot the untended right away. This is where smart networking comes into play. Some people are remarkably gifted networkers. It might look like as if they do not even have to try to connect. Is it really that simple? Even though you don't see it happening, they make enough eye contact to make the speaker feel important, they are tremendous listeners, and they make the speaker feel special by paying enough attention to their words.  They are the ones leaving a long-lasting positive impression.
Another group, on the other hand takes a monologue approach. They speak fast without even giving an opportunity to comprehend on the original topic, half-listen while moaning and looking around. Now, that's an expert way of wasting your time and energy! By the end of the event, they leave with hardly any impression imprinted on the person that matters.

Look for the big fish

If you think networking is shameless self-promotion to everyone you meet, you are wrong. It's not a high-school party where you meet everyone and talk to them because they won't really matter tomorrow. It's about finding and meeting the exact right person for your needs at the time. True that it takes a little effort and a bit walking around to find the big fish- the one that matters to you. If you are interested in what s/he does, you should have tons to talk about. Don't rush it, take a moment, wait for your turn, and then talk to them. It's best if you can start with a joke. A joke that's decent, remember that. A funny start is the best start.

Remember, it's a two way road

You can't just expect someone to do something for you selflessly. As cruel as it may sound, life is all about give-and-take. As they say, “there's nothing called a free lunch.” Even while networking, you need to have something in return to offer. For those who think I'm suggesting a bribe, you fail to see the point. Think of what you can do in return. That way, the person you are trying to connect with gets an idea of your professional capabilities and will think of giving you a reference later in life. Bring your A-game along to be remembered. “I once came across the PR manager of a certain company and I had been looking for an opportunity to make my way through. I went up to him at a party, started talking to him, and offered a helping hand voluntarily to work for him in a project. Sure I went out of my line to make contact, but it worked. After I helped him with the non-official event of his (which was my field of expertise), he made a job proposition.”, says Murtaza Islam (28), who's a Senior Account Manager. It could also be as simple as forwarding an article that would make a highly relevant and useful read for the other person.

Be polite

“I don't care what others think of me” attitude is for kids. If you've entered the corporate world, you should know that reputation matters. Also, the way you talk to people can be a big deal. So, drop your smug face (if you have one) and start smiling. Everyone likes a smiling face. Watch for conversational cues to know when exactly to ask a question, when to comment or smile, when to say thanks, and when to leave. If needed, ask an honest friend for advices.

Show Gratitude

Everyone loves a person who can appreciate, who's genuinely grateful. It may not seem like a big deal, but a grateful comment for the advice or constructive criticism can make you stand out. If possible, write an email thanking the person for his/her valuable time. In the process, you name gets engraved in their mind. Look at the price you paid- just a few well-written lines. Networking cannot get any easier than that.

Be a good listener

Not everyone is a natural listener. Some people genuinely like to talk. If you belong to the second group, I've got a good suggestion for you- leave all the talking for your personal life. Unless you've reached a position, try acquiring knowledge from those who have seen what you are yet to see. Even if you have already researched comprehensively, listen with enough attention to what other people say. The fastest way to make the best impact is to listen and ask sharp questions based on what s/he is saying.
I, personally, do not know a single professional who'd not like to become a better networker. After all, being known for what you do and having proper connections for the future is all that matters in the professional life.