Whether you are networking socially or for business reasons you will develop similar skills that you can transfer into either situation.
Follow one or two basic principles and you will get comfortable as you gain experience of how to be successful in social and business networking.
1. Be strategic - why do we network? In business it's to become known to gain information, knowledge and perhaps influence. Socially it's also to become known and to widen our group of contacts. Recognise these facts and by being a little strategic you will be effective with enjoyment. You know what you are doing.
2. Who do you want meet? Whether socially or in business it's like minded people with whom you have a feeling of understanding, who you like and who will contribute positively to the relationship.
3. How do you go about it? Join a club or study group. Take part in local activities related to your interests or business.
4. Be careful not to bore - you need a curious mind that shows that you are interested in others. Ask open questions and listen. Make your contribution but take care not to babble or dominate. There will be plenty who do that boastfully, be different and listen.
5. Be remembered - when you choose to speak if you have something memorable to contribute this will happen. If you show passion (not too much) you will come over well as what you are - a human being.
6. You started your business and social networking to make contacts and friends. Don't leave it at that. After the event follow up, cultivate and develop the relationships you want to go further.
7. Give it time - meeting new people doesn't mean that your relationship will be instantly established. It takes time to get it right and you need to be sure it will be a two way relationship.
8. Be inquisitive and ask people about themselves. Keep your talk of yourself and your situation low key but interesting.
When you have become confident about how to be successful in social and business networking you will gain fulfillment from all of your social and business relationships.
Take the time and effort to develop your skills it will be worth it.
