“There is a time and place for everything” – Mom
When is it appropriate to network? What a loaded question….
The proper answer is always, and with caution. Ah – always with caution!
It is important to always be meeting new people, in last week’s posts – we discussed some ideas on where you could meet people and who you could meet. But, is it prudent to be shoving your business card in every person’s face you meet at every moment of the day?
I would argue – no.
Some people don’t agree…they think any opportunity is a networking opportunity and on a level they are right. You should have business cards on you at all times – in case you meet someone you want to pass one along to. However, there is an appropriate time for everything.
Some tips:
- Be respectful of others – if it doesn’t appear they are interested in your advances, much less listening to your “story” or taking your business card – then don’t approach them. Example: the person next to you on a plane reading a book.
- Do always have business cards on you – you never know when you are going to run into someone with whom you’ll want to exchange information. This can happen at any place at anytime – don’t be unprepared.
- Networking could take place at any time, but if common sense tells you that it is potentially a time that could be looked upon as inappropriate – then, use caution, be discrete and take queues from the other person. If it clear they are not going to welcome the advance – then don’t proceed.
As with all things in life – timing is everything – remember this when practicing the art of networking.
Next post…How to network.
