by Leo Wiles
28 January 2015
I’ve gone from being in-house for years to having my own freelance business and if I don’t force myself, I don’t make contact with anyone for weeks. So I know I need to create more networks – not just for moral support from fellow freelancers but to potentially find more leads. But for someone who truly hates networking and small talk, do you have any tips to make it bearable? Kate
Funnily enough, our survey found that just one percent of freelancers scored jobs via conferences and work functions – but we don’t think that’s an invitation for any freelancer to strike networking off their leads list. Creating networks is hugely important when you work for yourself and I don’t care what anyone says; making a connection with an editor at an industry drinks night (like the MEAA’s regular get-togethers) or a small business conference may well put you in the right place at the right time. Let’s face it: it’s much harder to be ignored if you’re standing smack bang in front of someone with your toothiest grin (and business card in hand).
Fronting up to work ‘dos you’d normally avoid can also help you make valuable connections with busy freelancers, which can lead to referrals. But, if schmoozing a room full of strangers fills your inner introvert with dread, here are my tips for making a great first impression.
Smile. It’s 101, really, but a smile doesn’t just denote interest and enthusiasm – studies show a person with a smile is also perceived as more intelligent.
Nip those bad habits in the bud. I’m talking fidgeting or looking over someone’s shoulder while they are speaking.
Work the room. Step away from the bar and use your time more wisely. It can be easy when out to hang out with people we already know and use the do as a backdrop for a free night out. However, it won’t make a great impression on anyone there and by the time you leave you’ll have nothing new to show for it.
Remember you are on the clock. The more important the person you are speaking to, the shorter the time you’re likely to have with them. So, know your elevator speech/pitch off by heart.
Glean up on the company throwing the bash. It’ll minimise your anxiety and maximise your confidence. You’ll also know who in the room can actually get things done, hire you or put you in contact with a desired interviewee.
Small talk. You work in media so show that by being in touch with the latest data, headlines and industry movements. Being a journo means that it’s expected you’ll already know or at least have an understanding of what’s going on for the company employee you’re talking to.
Show your passion. There’s nothing more attractive in a stranger than the animation generated when they talk about their greatest love. Just make sure you’re not overly long-winded (or your audience’s eyes aren’t glazing over).
Listen. As a journo you know the power in making people feel good about who they are and what they are saying. It will certainly keep you heads and shoulders upon competitors who swagger into the room and think making a great impression means nothing but boasting and name-dropping.
Put your best foot forward. A firm handshake and business card can only take you so far. An interested party’s next step will certainly be to Google you, so make sure your online portfolio is up to date and backs up your pitch with relevant material.
Did we miss something? How do you find new leads? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.
