Networking helps you expand your circle of connections, which can help you boost your visibility with prospects and employers. Tapping into your network lets you meet new people, find new opportunities and grow your reach.

While networking on LinkedIn is still effective — the site has more than 830 million users as of this year —in-person networking is also important. You never know when you’ll meet a potential buyer, vendor or even employer. It’s estimated that 85% of open jobs are filled through networking rather than job postings.

If you feel off your game when it comes to networking, we’re sharing some guidance from Cathy Paper, the president of RockPaperStar, in this issue of Promotional Consultant Today. Read on to get some typical networking questions answered. You can also grab some ideas on what to ask at your next event.

How do I embrace networking? If you’re a nervous networker, take heart. Most people feel the same as you, Paper says. Just take a deep breath and introduce yourself. She says you can help shake your nerves by focusing on the connection itself rather than what it can yield for you. The more you treat it as a casual conversation rather than a play to land new business, the more it shifts from schmoozy to friendly.

How do I build a network? Paper admits it can feel intimidating establishing a network, especially if you’re new to the workplace. So, her best tip is to start small. Think about who you know from your college or your previous employer. Reach out to them on LinkedIn. Paper says it’s an incredibly accessible way to follow people in your field and get to know them.

How do I prepare for an event? Maybe you have a conference or trade show coming up. Use the days and weeks leading up to the event to think through how you will respond to certain questions. For example, a common question is “What do you do?” Rehearse your response and develop a plan for following up after the event. You may want to reach out on LinkedIn or send a handwritten note. Always do as much work beforehand as possible, Paper says. Know what companies will be in attendance and know who you’d like to meet.

What To Ask At Events

If you’re talking to a fellow attendee:
What brings you to this event?
Are you currently in the field or looking to break into it?
What are you hoping to get out of today?

If you’re talking to someone at a trade show booth:
Did you have anything you are hoping visitors/attendees take away from this event?
Can you tell me more about what your company does and your role within that?
How could someone hoping to join your organization make themselves stand out?

If you’re talking to an industry thought leader:
If you could give one piece of advice for someone trying to follow in your footsteps, what would it be?
Do you have any suggestions or action items for those who attended your lecture?
What are one or two skills that you believe set you apart or allow you to thrive in this space?

Networking can fray your nerves, but just remember to be yourself. Chances are, other people also feel nervous. You can help put them at ease by knowing what you want to ask and then letting the conversation flow naturally.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: Cathy Paper is the president of RockPaperStar, a training and coaching agency that specializes in networking, new manager training, book marketing and business development.