Posts Tagged cak+associates

I’ve been working my magic in public relations for several years now.  I don’t put much faith in magic, especially when it comes to my career and my agency’s reputation.  I do, however, believe in the power of networking.  Once you feel comfortable networking, you gain a profound advantage in business and that is when the magic happens.

Networking is a huge part of any communications based career, from advertising to marketing to public relations. Even with social media, networking is a crucial skill to possess. You may already think you are the master at networking; you never miss a grand opening, you have over 1,000 Facebook friends and three times as many Twitter followers, and you were recently asked to speak at the black tie children’s shelter benefit. Bravo!

Even if you are the creme de la creme… and trust me, I meet a lot of you, there are still a few key points to keep in mind when you network. Whether you are attending an event, or joining an on-line conversation (social media) or having a one on one encounter, these tips should help you be a bit more aware and prepared.

1. Always think about your intention when you enter into any networking situation. Ask yourself if your intention is genuine and if it will shine a positive light on yourself, and your company. Are you there for new contacts? Sponsorships? Resources? Friends?

2. Knowing your intention leads to the next tip, which is to remember that networking is a two-way street!  Be genuine about your intentions and think about how you can help others.  How you can add value to others. Don’t be afraid to offer up a resource or contact that might help them.

3. Go early and stay late.  This is a tough one with our busy schedules and loved ones, but often some of the best connections come from the quieter moments of the events with less chaos.  I am usually one of the first to arrive at events.

4. Always be present and engaged.  Look people in the eye when you meet them, stay present throughout the entire conversation.  Stop checking your cell phone for e-mails or texts.  I see a lot of people doing this during luncheons or awkward moments of silence. I used to do it myself, now I breathe through the uncomfortable silences.  Our cell phones have become this security blanket people use when they are at a loss for words or have just entered an uncomfortable situation.  If you stay present and remember your intentions, those few moments of discomfort will be worth all your new connections.

Contributed by Joie Tamkin, Associate Director of Public Relations, c.a.k +associates