Building Your Network: Approach People Like You're Making New Friends

We’ve all had to make friends at some point, whether it was on your first day at work or attending a company function. We’ve built up some serious interpersonal skills over the years by just being people — why not capitalise on them professionally? Here’s a primer:

• Gravitate toward your tribe
  Follow your interests to find like-minded people. If you’re going to a business event,  fundraiser or careers fair you automatically have something in common with the people there. Your passion for that thing brought you out — leverage it to your advantage.
• Find common ground
  When you meet someone for the first time, find that common ground as quickly as possible. It won’t necessarily be in the form of mutual friends — perhaps you work in the same industry, went to the same college, or share a hobby. The fastest way to discover it, is by listening.
• Be giving
  The fastest way to ingratiate yourself with a potential new friend or professional connection is by offering value. This can be as simple as sharing advice or turning them on to something new. Right off the bat, you’re establishing that you have a lot to offer and want to make the other person’s experience in life or business better. Who wouldn’t want to keep that kind of conversation going?

Keep in mind that lasting friendships aren’t one-and-done affairs. They require give and take and a little work, but you’re rewarded with a lasting support system.