Networking is the art of expanding your horizons. This translates into knowledge, experience, thinking and the skill or technique of listening. Some people at business meetings, conferences or social gatherings make the mistake of talking incessantly. It’s a natural tendency to think of your own answers while other people are talking, instead of actively listening.

Knowledge and understanding are enhanced through intensive listening. So, actively listen and display your positive body language.

Today, most businesses hold regular in house meetings: sales, production, marketing or finance. These meetings provide the opportunity for face-to-face contact, to explain and clarify many programs and procedures. They provide a venue for listening as well as for questions.

A few points to concentrate on:

• The art of listening has a great benefit of improving memory. After all, how can you recall certain information if you haven’t heard it?

• Make a good impression by addressing a person by their name. Have you ever been to a function, where on your arrival, you were introduced to several people and minutes later, you could not recall their names? The reason is simple, some people don’t remember because they don’t listen.

• Have your mind alert at all times when networking. Listen to what people have to say, even if the subject is unrelated to your field or expertise. Networking can bring together a wide range of experience and knowledge from many varied fields and industries.
 
• Think how you might be able to help others, whether you have a contact who may be able to assist the person you are talking to.  Consider others and their needs because reciprocity is alive and well!

Make networking work for you. Remember, listen and learn!