10 ways to master the art of networking

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Finance has been meeting and greeting like crazy over the past month as we carried out research for our latest feature on the the value of networking.

We've met networking experts across the UAE and have learnt that there is a technique to how you network - particularly if you want to take that next step in your career or grow your business. With this mind, we've tapped the knowledge of two professional networkers in the UAE: Claire Fenner, the co-founder and global chief executive of women's networking group Heels & Deals, and Sean Costello, the chief representation officer of Jersey Finance, which organises up to eight networking events to promote the interests of Jersey. Here, they bring you their top 10 tips on how to network effectively when you attend an event.

1.

Think why you are going to the event and what you hope to achieve: whether it's to find new clients or to look for a new job;

2

. Be prepared. Take a notebook and pen and plenty of business cards as it's easy to run out. Men should keep some in their wallet as well as in their jacket in case they take their jacket off during the course of the event;

3

. If you're ultra nervous, go with somebody else, such as a friend or colleague. It can be beneficial if it's a colleague because you can double your chances of meeting everyone you need to in the room. Alternatively, if it is a friend, they can promote your interests as well as their own and compare notes at the end;

4.

Arrive early to ensure you meet as many people as possible. And, if you are one of the first, you can almost act as the host and welcome people in;

5

. Think about the layout of the room and where you choose to stand. It's best to position yourself looking towards the entrance so that you can make eye contact with people as they come in;

6.

Prepare an "elevator pitch" about your job or company that is less than 30 seconds and can be said in one sentence. People want to know who you are, but don't want to listen to endless drivel about what you do;

7.

Head to where the food and drink is being served as that's often where people tend to congregate and it can be a good ice-breaker;

8

. Circulate and introduce people to one another. If you can't remember someone's name, say: "This is..." and pause and the person will automatically step in. Similarly, help out those who are nervous and standing on their own by introducing yourself and introducing them to others;

9.

Act confident, even if you don't feel it. Going into a room full of strangers is always daunting, but remember that everyone is there for the same purpose - to meet new people who may be of use to them;

10.

Read people's body language. If people are standing in a closed group, to barge in and introduce yourself may be inappropriate as they could be engaged in a deep business discussion. If a group appears more open, then feel free to walk over and introduce yourself.

For more advice on how networking can benefit you, don't miss this Saturday's Personal Finance section.