Time to step out of your comfort zone

I’m a firm believer networking should be fun and that it works best in an environment where everybody feels at ease. But is there a point where you can get too comfortable?

To risk repeating myself, networking can, and should be an enjoyable experience.

I am very proud that many of our members at BNCEL tell me how much they enjoy our events – some have even gone on to say they have become the highlight of their month.

For people who are passionate about their business, there’s nothing better than getting together with a bunch of likeminded people over a delicious lunch and talking a bit of shop.

However, while there is huge value in building deep relationships with good connections across the event calendar, there’s also a danger in getting into a routine of always talking to the same people you know you already know and like.

To get the best value from each event, my advice is always seek to spread the love. Yes, catch up with the people you know. But always, always, always try to speak to somebody new too.

You never know, they could turn out to be an amazing contact. One simple trick is to watch how you stand. Body language can be incredibly powerful.

So, when you are catching up with one of your best buds at the start of an event, try to stand in a way that maintains an open space, that invites passing people to join you.

If you see someone passing who looks alone, literally invite them into your space. Balancing making deep connections with forging new ones is the key to successful networking.