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.
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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.
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• 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.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Wilna Meiring
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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