Struggling to make connections in business networking?

¿Tienes dificultades para conectar en redes empresariales? No estás solo. La clave no es la cantidad de conexiones, sino la autenticidad. Sé tú mismo, escucha antes de hablar, lee antes de comentar y comparte tus experiencias. Las relaciones significativas se construyen con tiempo y genuino interés. No te frustres si no ocurre de inmediato, la constancia marca la diferencia. ¿Te has sentido así alguna vez? Comparte tu experiencia, ¡hagamos de esta conversación algo real y un verdadero aprendizaje para muchos! _________________________ Pedro Figueroa ¡Partner Estratégico!🤝

If you're struggling to make connections in business networks, focus on building genuine relationships by listening actively and finding shared interests. Approach each interaction with curiosity and a willingness to offer value. Consistency is key—follow up with contacts regularly and engage with their content or achievements. Networking is about long-term relationship-building, not just immediate gains.

I often speak about authentic networking at our events, and usually share 2 stories... I called a visitor ahead of a meeting. She worked with a telco but the call went to a generic voicemail promoting a competitor! And then there was a guy online who did websites. He had a video background with different logos passing behind him. Two of those logos were companies that I would never recommend - I don't know any decent website folk who would - so I asked what he did with those companies. He said "I help people get away from them as quickly as possible". Reassuring, but he'd not realised he was essentially advertising them. He never used it again. Are there (not-so) hidden messages that challenge your authenticity when networking?

Listen to understand, rather than merely listening to respond. It will build a stronger relationship (even if only a short one) and result in better connections. More importantly the other person will be more inclined to take time to understand you and your business, as they feel valued.

Is the venue loud? Is it crowded? Are many people trying to speak with the same person? Hack: go to somewhere in the venue that you think the people you want to talk with will go: The refreshments! Then as they come over have something super non-intrusive to ask, such as 'what do you think of the event'? Get into the conversation and it will flow from there.

Please make sure your follow-up is sincere and authentic! I've received so many emails from people who blatantly just send the same email to everyone who was at a meeting every time. Putting effort into fostering authentic personal connections is where the magic happens.

This is so true! I get almost all my business from networking, and mostly because I gave value (advice, support, whatever) without expecting anything in return.