Because of the important role that networking plays in business, business development and life in general, we have touched on various parts of it in past articles!
Networking is an activity that for some some comes completely naturally while for others it can be difficult and quite anxiety provoking.
And yet it is such an important part of our every day functioning both professionally and personally.
Who can forget these titles that explored some different aspects of networking here in the past:
10 steps to the perfect elevator speech!
Tips: Networking for Introverts!
Five non-traditional ways to network!
But now the question needs to be asked and then answered about just how good you are at this art and whether there are ways that you can improve your performance?
From Careerealism, QUIZ: What Kind Of Networker Are You?
1. When you’re introduced to someone, you:
(a) Quietly mumble, “Hi.”
(b) Introduce yourself, then leave after five minutes of small talk.
(c) Smile, and immediately start asking questions about him/her.
2. How many networking events do you attend each month?
(a) 1-2
(b) Wait, you have to network each month?
(c) I’ve lost track!
3. You just walked into a networking event. You:
(a) Immediately walk to the bar to get a drink, avoiding everyone.
(b) You were late, so everyone is already in conversations. You find a loner to talk to.
(c) Walk over to a group of people and jump right into the conversation.
4. How long do you typically stay at networking events?
(a) For as long as I can possibly stand it.
(b) Not long. I have TV shows to catch up on.
(c) I’m usually one of the last people to go. I just can’t stop talking!
5. You’re waiting for the bus with a stranger. You:
(a) Pretend like you’re playing with your phone to avoid conversation.
(b) Talk about the weather, then stand there awkwardly.
(c) Strike up a real conversation with the person, then sit next to them on the bus so you can talk more.
6. Whenever you go out, you:
(a) Meet up with a close friend for dinner.
(b) You usually bail.
(c) Walk into a bar and know 90% of the people there.
7. What does your friend circle look like?
(a) I have one or two close friends.
(b) I have a fairly large group of friends that I don’t see often.
(c) Friend circle? I have tons of circles! Circles on circles!
8. When it comes to conversation:
(a) You never know what to talk about.
(b) Your mood determines how much talking you’ll do with people.
(c) You’re always asking questions and telling stories.
9. What does your social calendar look like?
(a) You have a couple of events each week.
(b) You usually bail on plans because you’re tired.
(c) You have something going on every night!
10. What would you rather do?
(a) Keep to yourself.
(b) Meet people, but not have to put much effort into it.
(c) Go to events, parties, and social gatherings all of the time.
Results
Mostly As: The Shy Networker
You’re a little shy when it comes to networking. At events, you’re usually over in the corner debating whether or not you should leave and watch House of Cards.
You want to meet new people, but you just never know how to approach people and break the ice.
Read this article for some helpful networking tips.
Mostly Bs: The Networking Procrastinator
You know you need to network in order to advance your career, but ughhhh it’s just so hard to drudge all the way to a networking event after a long, hard day of work. Maybe next week? Maybe next month? You’re the networking procrastinator.
We know life is short, and you’d rather be doing ANYTHING but networking. Here are some ways you can network in 30 minutes or LESS!
Mostly Cs: The Super Connector
You know everybody! You’ve got tons of friends and your calendar is always full of events. You love meeting new people and connecting them with your friends.
You are the super connector. You don’t think of networking as a necessity – It’s fun!
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Written by Michael Haltman, President of Hallmark Abstract Service, New York.
HAS is a provider of title insurance in New York State for residential and commercial real estate transactions specializing in the areas of New York City, Long Island and Westchester.
Remember that you have the right to choose your own title company (click here to learn more)!
If you have any questions you can reach Michael by email at mhaltman@hallmarkabstractllc.com.
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