b' Do a bit of homework: Look at theattendee list or LinkedIn profiles beforehand. Having context helps reduce social anxiety and sparks conversation starters. Also, prepare your introductionbut ditch the elevator pitch. Instead of reciting your job title, try something more conversational: I help [type of people] do [what you help them do], so they can [positive outcome]. Or, Im working on [interesting project or challenge]. Its been teaching me a lot about [lesson or insight].3. MASTER THE ART OF Even if theres no immediate opportunity,FINAL THOUGHTTHE CONVERSATIONa warm follow-up plants the seed forNetworking isnt just a professional You dont have to be witty or wildlyfuture collaboration. toolits a human one. At its heart, its extroverted to be good at conversations.5. PLAY THE LONG GAME about showing up with curiosity, building You just have to be present relationships that matter and recognizing and interested. Effective networking isnt aboutthat success is rarely a solo sport.Lead with curiosity. Ask open-endedimmediate gainits about building questions like: a community over time. The mostWhen you network like a humanimpactful networks are rooted in trust,generous, curious and realyou dontWhat brought you to this event? reciprocity and consistency. just collect contacts. You builda community.Whats keeping you curious Stay top of mind by: these days?Sharing interesting articles Jaime Mann is a construction business or resources; owner, keynote speaker and Whats something most peoplepsychology expert. She is also themisunderstand about your work?Commenting on peoples posts; and founder of The Amaryllis Project, Listen generously. People can feel the Offering help when someonesa coaching, facilitation and advisory firmdifference between waiting for your turnhiring, launching or navigating specializing in leadership developmentto speak and actually being heard. Nod,a challenge. and positive transformations that enable paraphrase or ask follow-up questionsher clients to thrive, not only individually to show youre engaged. Nothing feelsYour network is not just who you know but in their organizations and larger better than when we are given the gift ofits who knows and trusts you. That takescommunities. Connect with her on LinkedIn somebodys full attention. time, intention and a human approach. at linkedin.com/in/theamaryllisproject.Exit gracefully. If a conversation runs its course, its okay to move on. Try: Its been so great talking with you. I wantSTAR BUILDING MATERIALS-STAR TRUSS-STAR READY TO MOVE HOMESto be sure to meet a few more peopleComposite DeckingRoo\x1fng & SidingCommoditiestonightshall we trade contact info?WWW.STARBUILDING.CA Treated LumberEngineered Wood ProductsYou dont need to be twisty and weird.1-888-STARWPG (782-7974) OR 204-233-8687DAWSON RD. N.Keep it simple.4. DONT JUST WORK THE ROOMFOLLOW UPThe fortune isnt just in the follow-upits in the authentic follow-up.Within a couple of days, send a short message (email or LinkedIn) thats personal and specific. ReferenceADVICE YOU CAN TRUST,something from your conversation andSERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON.suggest a next step if it makes sense.Example: It was great chatting at theStar building offers everyone the same expert advice Manitoba home builders and contractors have relied on for decades. We have Manitobas largest lumber yard, panel last nightyour thoughts onstate of the art truss design and manufacturing equipment, a full service saw shop, [topic] really stuck with me. If youre everand retail store with the tools and hardware you need to get the job done well!up for a virtual coffee, Id love to hear16 Speers Road, Winnipeg | Monday - Friday: 7AM - 5PM | Saturday - Sunday: Closedmore about [their work/project].Issue 2 | Summer Edition | 2025 BUILD MANITOBA 25'