Networking Tips for Starting a Conversation

by guest blogger: Wilna Meiring

In 2022, I embarked on the Leadership Evolution Masterclass Series (LEMS) which was open to female SAICA members, and in this blog post, not only will I share an insight gained, but also I will share some of my skills and knowledge in the hope that it will help someone.

During the Networking session on LEMS, we discussed how some people love networking and others don’t and how aspects such as our natural energies, as seen through the Contribution Compass assessment, past experiences, anxieties in the moment, values, beliefs, and purpose affect our relationship with networking. Having a natural affinity for networking, I was probed about my networking techniques and tips for starting conversations with strangers and I realised I have something worth sharing. I’ve never written a blog post before, but since LEMS challenges us to challenge ourselves, I’ve decided to share through this post.

I have always had this deep desire to connect with people, which is probably why I can so easily strike up conversations with strangers. It never occurred to me that a skill I take for granted is a skill that others may be struggling with and, through this new insight garnered on LEMS, I believe that sharing my advice could be of benefit to others.

Developing your networking skills is important because it allows you to meet new people, learn about new opportunities, expand your mindset and create lasting relationships. Networking can also help you find a job, get a business loan, or find a new client. Networking is also a great way to make friends and expand your social circle.
I take pleasure in meeting people I encounter, especially at work. This includes everyone from security guards and receptionists as you enter the building to cleaners, colleagues, and bosses. First, I make eye contact, then, I either ask them how they are, or I thank them for keeping us safe or the area clean.

Woman smiling

TIP #1

Tip #1 is to start in the office and share a genuine smile with every single person you encounter, from the moment you drive into your office park and through the walk to your desk. When you are comfortable with greeting individuals naturally, ask those who make eye contact with you how they are. This is how you show that you care.
Progress takes time

TIP #2

Tip #2 is to take small steps and make small changes. Practice these before moving to the next change. Once you are comfortable with those at work, try doing this to the people in queues, petrol stations, or any place where you are waiting and have people around you. Don’t feel discouraged when the person you are trying to connect with does not react or does not show any sign of engagement. This will happen, and that’s okay. Your job is to develop your ability to smile and connect with more people.

TIP #3

Tip #3 move past hello.

Here are a few tips on how to grow a conversation:
• After greeting, share a generic, small-talk comment – like “sjoe it’s been so cold this winter”
• Next, respond to what they say.
• At times you will be able to keep a conversation going, other times you won’t. Remember that’s okay. This is practice. If your small talk is not well-received, simply move on.

Through this practice, you will become more comfortable talking to strangers and become an active connector, which can then be transferred to the workplace. It’s great to practice with strangers to build confidence, If it doesn’t work, you can simply walk away.
Friends hiking and talking

TIP #4

Tip#4 personalise the conversation. At work, during a meeting or discussion, actively listen to find a connection point with the person you want to connect with or make a note of something the person said that resonates with you. If you have an opportunity during a discussion reach out to the person and use the connection point to start a conversation or wait till after the meeting. Here’s how you can get that conversation started:

• You can start with, I heard you mention that you like hiking, I also started/want to start hiking, and was I wondering if you have some recommendations for a great place to hike/hiking groups/hiking shoes/etc. You get the picture, ask a question.
• Mention something that you also like about hiking.
• Mention that you liked what they said, repeat their comment, and state that this resonates with you.
• When you have done one or more of the above, ask for what you want – perhaps you would like an informal meeting to discuss/explore, or a referral or recommendation.
Nurture for growth

TIP #5

Tip #5 remember WHY you want to connect with this person. Is it to practise your conversation skills, to develop a relationship, to identify opportunities for mutual benefit, to learn/share knowledge, etc, because this will allow you to decide whether you just want a light chat or you want to follow up with more conversations thereafter.
Meeting new people

TIP #6

Tip #6 if you feel nervous about networking, remember you are not alone. You will find that many people share the same apprehension but also have the desire to connect. You could quite the inner voice and just do it, practice till you feel more confident, or even be vulnerable and share it with that person as this will make connecting with people easier.
Woman Walking away or walking toward

TIP #7

Tip#7 move on if there is no spark. You will not always meet people who want to engage, connect and develop a relationship and that’s okay. Don’t take anything personal against such a person, they may be having a bad day, have their own fears to deal with, or may have their minds and thoughts elsewhere.
Group of colleagues talking
Networking can be fun, I love it, but that’s me. But whether you love to network or not, the benefits of connecting with other human beings are undeniable. Networking can help you build relationships, find mentors, make friends, get jobs, and so much more. Practice networking during personal functions or at parties and remember, as you practice, you will become more comfortable with networking. I hope that sharing my tips for networking and striking up a conversation will help you. It’s time, to go out there and start connecting!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Wilna Meiring

Wilna Meiring shares her networking tips

Guest Blogger: Wilna Meiring

This blog post was written by Wilna Meiring while attending the Leadership Evolution Masterclass Series. Wilna is a Chartered Accountant (SA) and Managing Executive: Corporate Risk and Security at Vodacom Group. She has a passion to help people develop through coaching and mentoring, helping to create growth mindsets and build leaders for the future. She is also passionate about the outdoors and fitness and is a keen long distance horse endurance rider and do trail runs to keep fit.
Connect with Wilna Meiring on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilna-meiring-88b54949/

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