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BUSINESS
129
January15
Networking
Know-how
Keen to find a job, explore a new business idea
or ignite your entrepreneurial spirit? Any of these
can be made a whole lot easier with relationships,
contacts and networks. While the idea of making
such connections in a newcity can be overwhelming
and somewhat daunting, Singapore is a fabulous
place for networking. There are many established
organisations geared up for networking, plus
enthusiastic and engaging people tomeet. But how
do we actually go about networking? Australian
SHIKHA GAUR, who has lived, worked (she’s
currently with Aon Hewitt Wealth Management)
and networked here for ten years, offers her advice.
Joke Brouckaert | Dreamstime.com
Why network?
Networking can be a great source of ideas, information and
feedback, and a way to build not just your own personal
brand but also goodwill. Use networking to build and develop
relationships – both personal and career-related – and as a
way to build influence and develop a support structure. It may
also open doors to cooperation and collaboration with people
you may have never thought to connect with.
You’ve said Singapore is one of the best places in
the world to network. Why?
Singapore has an environment that’s conducive to doing
business, and this goes hand in hand with networking. It’s
also a relatively small place. Often, you will meet someone
who knows a friend or colleague of yours. This “two degrees
of separation” is useful in creating an immediate shared
connection and common ground. Many associations and
other social and professional groups use networking activity
to help them grow and be relevant. And the Asian approach
to business is to network.
What are some of the ways that people use
networking to their advantage?
• Finding a first job, establishing or developing a career,
or testing a career change.
• Promoting and expanding a business.
• Increasing knowledge and awareness to ensure skills
are relevant.
• Testing out concepts – for example, when starting up
a new business.
• Creating a support group, finding a mentor or being a
mentor.
• Meeting people to build connections with and
developing stronger relationships.
What are some strategies for good networking?
• Identify opportunities, events and moments to network
either formally or informally.
• Set goals. That does not mean “collect 100 business
cards this evening”; rather, it means “meet three new
people this evening” or “have a couple of meaningful
conversations”.
• Know how to start conversations, facilitate them and
build on them. Ask questions, listen and discover. Focus
on areas of common ground.
• Connect and introduce others. Networking is not just
self-serving.
• Demonstrate etiquette, both when promoting your own
services and when you’re being pitched to.
• Be approachable – and smile.
• Don’t be afraid to show your personality.
• Speak to anyone and everyone – you just never know
who you will meet.
• Understand the value of patience, longevity and
persistence.
• It’s generally agreed that networking success is more
likely if your attitude is, “What can I offer this person?”
rather than “What I can gain?”
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