Networking is vital to unlocking professional growth and career advancement.
Individuals, businesses of all sizes, and any industry can benefit from the magic of networking as it creates valuable connections, opens doors to opportunities, and facilitates the exchange of resources and knowledge.
Networking is especially essential in the hospitality industry, as building connections with customers, clients, and other industry professionals directly impacts the quality of guest experiences and the success of the business.
Hailey Toch provides effective networking tips for professionals within the hospitality industry.
Honing Hospitality: Networking Strategies in the Hospitality Industry
Any business within the hospitality industry can benefit from networking. It not only creates relationships with like-minded professionals but also helps businesses gain valuable knowledge and stay updated with industry trends.
However, the expectations and competition in the hospitality industry are high. How can one stand out and network effectively?
Networking is a great way to try out new roles and meet new people. Hands-on experience, education, training, and attending industry events – whatever method will work for you, can be very beneficial.
Here are a few strategies:
Be Prepared
Attending events is a huge part of networking. Before going to one, it’s best that entrepreneurs come prepared so that conversations will go smoothly and be productive. Research about the event’s purpose, organizers, and attendees.
More importantly, research the key players who will be attending and find out about their business, needs, and interests. Prepare icebreakers, conversation starters, a business cards to be sure.
Be Professional
When attending networking events, it’s also important to act and appear professional. Dress appropriately for the event and comply with the etiquette rules.
When speaking with other professionals, always be polite, attentive, and respectful. Avoid being pushy; keep in mind that the aim is to build relationships within the industry, and not promote one’s product or service.
Be Personal
It’s best to balance out professionalism with personality. When conversing with others, entrepreneurs should inject some insights, opinions, and personal stories that show their passion for the hospitality industry. Make the conversation fun – people are more likely to remember those they had fun talking to. When appropriate, don’t hesitate to ask or give advice, feedback, or referrals.
Be Proactive
Networking doesn’t stop at attending events. It’s a continuous process that helps nurture relationships and expand contacts. Entrepreneurs should be proactive about following up with individuals they connected with at the event and send gentle reminders about their proposition.
Keep in touch and find ways to collaborate or even meet up. In return, send them invitations, useful resources, or referrals they would benefit from as a courtesy.
Be Strategic
It’s important for entrepreneurs to have a plan and a clear goal when it comes to networking. While it’s great to meet as many contacts as possible, it’s best to cultivate relationships with people who can be personally influential and relevant to one’s business.
It’s also ideal to connect with professionals from different backgrounds, sectors, or levels of expertise to gain access to more information and opportunities.
By embracing the power of networking, hospitality industry professionals can elevate their careers and better yet, improve the experiences for the guests they serve.