On this episode of the Lead With Purpose podcast host, Tze Ching Yeung talks about how to network better and getting over the intimidation some people feel at networking events. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Networking is a very important thing that we should be doing because that’s where we meet collaborators or people in our industry that we can learn from or potentially find new clients. So, it’ vey important that we’re comfortable networking. The first thing I do is set a goal as to why I’m going to a networking event, having clear goals helps you attract the people that you need to speak to, identify who you need to speak to and how to speak to them.
• Start small. If networking feels overwhelming, start at smaller events like local meetups, workshops, social gatherings related to your industry or your interests. These settings are often more casual and relaxed which is much more conducive to initiating conversations with people.
• Listen more, talk less. When you meet new people focus on actively listening to what they have to say and show genuine interest in their experiences and opinions. Listening helps build rapport and makes other people feel valued. If you’re not comfortable speaking in a networking group, ask questions and be genuinely interested and listen. 
• Practice your elevator pitch before going to a networking event. This is a very important part of your preparation and will help you to feel more comfortable so you don’t feel caught out or worrying about what to say when you meet new people. The elevator pitch is an introduction to you and what you do in a very concise manner. Keep it brief, memorable and tailored to your audience. People will always ask you what you do, don’t just say your job title, say who you helped and how. 

BEST MOMENTS
‘Keep an open mind because sometimes opportunities do just appear whilst you’re networking.’
‘You don’t have to speak to build rapport, you just have to listen and ask questions that you’re actually interested in.’
‘Be authentic, by yourself and be honest with you interactions, people appreciate authenticity more than anything and it helps build trust in the relationship that you’re building.’
‘After you’ve been to a networking event do follow up with the people that you met, especially if there’s anyone that you particularly enjoyed talking to. Connect with them on social media or send them an email, mention a point you both talked about and offer to meet up to continue the conversation. Make them feel remembered and valued, this reinforces your connection.’

ABOUT THE HOST
Tze Ching started her entrepreneurial journey back in 2007 with the launch of a sustainable clothing and home furnishing ecommerce business. Next, she created a sustainable fashion brand.

In 2019, she launched a social enterprise to help raise awareness about the negative impact of fashion at schools and colleges. 

Through the 15-year journey, she learned so much, but easily the most meaningful lesson learned was about the importance of marketing. She now focuses on channelling those insights to help others succeed, through We Disrupt Agency, a business coaching, mentoring and digital marketing company. 

Tze Ching’s mission is to create a community of global change makers and to contribute to positive change in both people and planet.

CONTACT DETAILS
Tze Ching’s website: https://wedisruptagency.com 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wedisruptagency 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedisruptagency/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/wedisruptagency 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tzechingyeung/