Working in PR and communications, networking is a regular and incredibly important component of the job description. After all, as the saying goes “If you’re not networking, you’re not working”. This was a rather daunting prospect for me at first, someone who used to be a naturally shy and introverted person, so I was surprised when I found myself enjoying and putting my hand up to attend various events and conferences.
Attending conferences is a great opportunity to gain insights into new and emerging trends, hear different viewpoints on the industry as well as meet and greet some new and familiar faces, which can be existing clients, journalists, thought leaders, suppliers and business owners.
Suffice to say, we spend a lot of time attending networking opportunities within the communication industry as well as events that are relevant to our clients and to the clients we would love to work with.
So why is networking valuable?
Relationships
This is a great opportunity to strengthen existing relationships while building new ones and facilitating win-win relationships. The more you introduce yourself to people and keep existing relationships going, the more likely your chances are of being referred on to a new contact or potential client. Networking could also lead to a job opportunity – it’s who you know, not what you know. The last networking event I went to, I had to pitch myself in an icebreaker task to a head of a large communications company in under 30 seconds (essentially an elevator pitch). By the end of it, I had a business card and a request to contact them when I was further along in my career.
Improving Your Communication
As I said, before I put myself out there and began networking, I was rather quiet. Networking has allowed me to improve my communication skills, whether it be pitching ideas (or myself) in under 30 seconds or simply learning how to be a confident crowd-player. This helps build confidence and your personal brand.
Professional Development
It’s an exciting time to be in the world of PR and communications. The landscape is constantly changing with new and developing communication tools, especially in the digital space. By attending networking events and seminars, you gain exposure to and knowledge in new products, technology and industry insights, keeping you on top of your game.
Inspiration and Ideas
As well as developing yourself professionally, you often find yourself inspired by others in the room. Being in a creative space, it’s important to get out there, talk to people, see new technology and developments to really gain a full and varied approach to the industry. You can’t reach your full potential by sitting in front of a computer all day and never mixing up your routine of sleep, eat, work, repeat. The collective buzz you get from meeting people who are equally enthusiastic about their roles as you are can be a great motivator.
Making New Friends
It’s rare that we get the opportunity to relax and meet like-minded people, who could even become great friends. It’s important to realise that it’s not always about work and hard sells. Established friendships in a business space can be a powerful force in building your network. You can also call on these people for advice or find a mentor in the process. As a result of this, you could even end up finding the next solution to your client’s dilemma or find an easier way to deliver the results your stakeholders need and want.
Knowledge
Guest speakers at events are usually a great resource of knowledge as they are often at the top of their career and eager to share their secrets to success. Networking events with guest speakers provide a good lesson in effective ways to resurrect your business and tips and advice on building your empire. After all, they’re talking from experience of both success and failures and usually within the same market as you.
Remember, networking is not all about taking; it’s also about listening and giving. A lot of the time, we make other businesses and individuals look good, but this is your time to speak up and show what you can do. Have an “elevator” pitch ready to go, a few key points you would like to bring up and work on a great icebreaker question to put the other person at ease before your next networking event. But most importantly, be calm, friendly and professional and the rest will fall into place.
If you would like to build relationships with key stakeholders in your industry, contact Elevate to discuss how we can assist you with a strategic communication program.
Tags: Networking, PR
