recent 1st degree graduate attending
a doctors’ event may be interested
in mastering in pediatrics. Therefore
though mingling with others, he or
she would want to concentrate on
pediatricians and garner the contacts
of at least 3 pediatricians.
Acclimatize
If it’s difficult for you to open up to
other people then it’s likely that the
same applies to new environments.
Arriving about 15-20 minutes earlier
to a networking event allows you to
soak in the space and all its elements
at a bearable pace. It also allows you
to calm down and adapt so that by the
time the event actually starts, you’re
much more easy-going than nervous.
Mind your body language
We all know that our bodies are
powerful communicators but
unfortunately we generally forget
this and give out cues unconsciously.
Purpose to be conscious about your
body language and remember a really
cool acronym I came across recently,
SOFTEN. Smile at people, it makes
you seem welcoming, friendly and
approachable.
The Duchenne smile - smiling with
‘‘ If it’s difficult for you to open up to other
people then it’s likely that the same applies
to new environments. Arriving about 15-20
minutes earlier to a networking event allows
you to soak in the space and all its elements
at a bearable pace. It also allows you to calm
down and adapt so that by the time the event
actually starts, you’re much more easy-going
than nervous.’’
not just your teeth but with your
eyes as well – is especially effective in
drawing people in.
Have open arms. Hands akimbo,
across your chest, behind your back,
etc., all give people the hint, “Don’t
talk to me.” Face and forward lean
when talking to people. That means
face them with your entire body and
lean forward slightly as they speak.
This tells people, “I’m interested in
you and what you have to say.”
Touch through handshakes.
Handshakes are appropriate forms of
human contact in the business context.
One may argue that in some cases it
may not be appropriate to give
a handshake e.g.
because of religious customs but this
is a networking event so go on and
shake hands. And remember, keep
your handshake
reasonably firm; it’s not about
treating hands like they have Sulphur
on them nor is it about crushing
metacarpals.
Maintain eye contact. Look at people
in the eye when you speak to them,
it makes you seem trustworthy and
confident. It goes without saying also,
don’t give creepy stares. Finally nod
when speaking to someone. It lets
them know that you’re listening and
you’re interested.
Go with a friend
If you’re able to, go to the
event with a person who’s more
outgoing than yourself. They
could help to connect you with
others. This tip does come with
a warning though, that friend
is still human so he or she is
also interested in his or her own
pursuits. Reminds me of my
days in school when I’d want to
befriend a boy then I’d ask a girl
to introduce us. Guess who the
boy ended up liking ….
Odd number circles
People generally cluster in
circles when conversing.
24 MAL 19/17 ISSUE