I have been part of FBLA since 8th grade. In one of the SLCs I attended, I went to a workshop that helped me learn how to network. I am going to share tips I learned from the workshop with you!
Smile at people.
Smiling makes you more approachable for others. When you smile, people will be attracted to come talk to you. Smiling is such an easy thing to do, but it can go a long way! Smile more! Smiling makes you happier as well.
Don't criticize or complain.
No one likes a complaining person. Appreciate everything and do not begin a conversation by complaining as you will come of as a person with negative energy.
Start with small questions.
Starting with small questions will allow them to build trust on you and you will get to know them more.
Show respect to other person.
This is a basic. Respect the other person. Listen to what they are saying. Don't interrupt them. Showing respect to them will allow the other person to respect you as well.
Give honest and sincere appreciation.
If the other person did a presentation or showed off an idea, appreciate it. Compliment him/her. Show them that you really enjoy what they are doing and am interested.
Talk in terms of other person's interest.
Don't talk about yourself. Ask them questions about themselves so they will be engaged in the conversation with you. Everyone loves answering questions about themselves.
Start off with a compliment.
Introduce yourself by complimenting the other person. You will come off as a sincere and cordial person. Complimenting them not only makes them happier, but makes their first impression of you more memorable.