Body Language Tricks for Networking Success
In this, the third of a three-part advice series, global body language expert Carole Railton shares with Belle About Town her advice for using body language to present yourself confidently when networking.
Networking is a way of gaining contacts that may be able to help us in the future, or the ability for you to help others. Helping others builds connections fast which will benefit you later in your business life to gain contracts, get referrals and build your credibility.
The move towards personal branding means networking can quickly amplify your brand and let others know about you work and USPs. However, networking can be daunting for beginners and there are as many things not to do as there are behaviours you ought to employ.
Let’s start with some things not to do: over talking and dominating a conversation with talk about yourself. It is much better to start with asking questions. Open-ended questions are best, these are questions that start with, ‘what, where, when, how and why’ they prevent a person giving a one-word answer to you.
When approaching a group of people talking together it is advisable to notice their feet – the feet are one of the most honest parts of body! Position yourself directly opposite someone’s feet pointing at you. This way you know they will communicate with you. Make sure your feet are pointing towards them, and you will have the beginnings of a conversation. It pays to move to different groups during these times as you will meet more people.
A genuine smile softens your face, lifts your energy and makes people feel at ease around you, so this is your next move and hand gestures that enhance what you say can add life to your conversation. Of course, make sure you do not have that glass of wine in your hand when you do this!
Eye contact is the strongest way to let someone know you are interested in them. In very personal situations we use our eyes as indications of how we feel all the time. In a business meeting like this, you need to feel comfortable and so do the people you are talking to. Look them in the left eye, this is the perfect way for them and you to feel relaxed when you are talking to each other. You already know that staring is not ok and being too close to people is also disturbing so, try and stand not too close to them, stand back a bit, others might follow your lead and do the same making it more acceptable for everyone.
Make sure you network and interact with others throughout the session. You need to move onto different groups throughout the meeting. Everyone is there for the same reasons as you, to establish rapport and build contacts for the future so have confidence moving around. Stay observant towards body language, notice who is nodding to agree with you or others, who is asking you questions, these are the people you need to make deeper connections with, they understand what networking is all about.
Remember your manners when you move to a different group. People who push their own agenda are not making the best use of their time; it will switch people off. It is important though to have a couple of sentences that describe what you do, so you can answer the question ‘what do you do’ succinctly. The main reason you are there is to build rapport with others.
Keep your body language relaxed, no crossed arms, fidgeting or looking over someone’s shoulder to see who else is in the room, instead use open postures, eye contact and always be present.
There are bound to be times you forget someone’s name, but gone are the days of handing out business cards. Instead, offer your phone to a new contact and ask them to enter their details. This shows a keenness to connect and a sense of trust.
Finally, it’s not a time for negative behaviours or complaining, instead always keep the tone positive. Remember to keep your interest up with others by asking open ended questions and always be open-minded.
