Effective face-to-face networking is vital anywhere you go. More specifically, it is important in competitive job markets like the Middle East – just knowing the right people can get you far.

From keeping up to date with the latest news in the industry or knowing first hand about upcoming job opportunities to meeting key contacts in different industries can help you advance your career.

Networking helps you:

• Actively share initiatives and ideas
• Develop a group of resources that you can refer to for advice, tips and knowledge
• Expand your contact group 
• Get your name “out there” 
• Develop a good reputation for you and your company 

Top tips for effective networking:

If you’re not sure where to begin you may find these steps useful to expand your network.

Planning

Before attending an event or social outing, identify your objectives and how to go about achieving them. Ask yourself what your purpose is for networking and what you want to get out of it.  

Research

Research various networking groups, associations and contacts to find out what will work for you. Ask colleagues in a similar role, use the internet to develop your knowledge. 

Self promotion

Promote yourself effectively. Remember that you have something to offer as well.

Communication

Communicate effectively. Be articulate, concise, enthusiastic, honest and open. Remember to listen when engaged in conversation as it is critical to remember key points in conversations.

From keeping up to date with the latest news in the industry or knowing first hand about upcoming job opportunities to meeting key contacts in different industries can help you advance your career.

Circulate

Speak with as many people as you can at a networking function. Establish the basics and arrange another time to have a more detailed discussion.

Treat everyone equal

Value is in the information and support people can give, which often comes from surprising sources. A network is a level and fair playing field. The more people you are in contact with at all levels the more opportunities/information you will be exposed to.

Commit

Follow through on your commitments, both to yourself and others. Keep records to remember what you have committed to do.

Organisation

Organise yourself. Prepare business cards and collect business cards from the contacts that you have made to keep track of important details for future use.

Teamwork

Both you and your new contacts can utilise each others skills and experiences to work together and achieve personal and professional goals.

For more career advice information, please contact:

Jason Grundy, Country Manager (Middle East)
jason.grundy@robertwalters.com
+971 4 8180 102