Are you a journalist? Or a budding journalist or freelance journalist? If yes, networking is extremely essential for you. In this field, to determine a good scoop or find a source to figure out the truth behind a story, you need contacts. Also, networking means you meet like-minded people or people who have the power to help you out from a tight spot. A journalist could always use this, and thus, they must do their best to network.
For a journalist, networking opportunities can arise anytime. When they are chasing a story or attending an event and more. Thus, they need to be prepared. That means, carry a digital business card with them. Why digital? Because it helps them conveniently and sneakily share their details with anyone. Also, it is cost-effective, and as we know, journalism doesn't pay much.
So, with your business card by your side, here is how you can network and make impeccable contacts.
Always try to say yes to an event invitation
Journalists are always seeking the truth. However, often they are shy and do not like to get out to socialize as they are trying to find some truth. But if you want to network, which can help you in the future, they need to get out of their comfort zone. If it is an industry event, you will get to be the leaders and icons of your industry. It gives you a chance to build a connection with them. If it is any other social event, you still get to meet people and sometimes find a connection or even a story.
Always be in contact with people
When you meet a prospective client at an event, stay in touch with them. Maybe you want to work or write for them in the future. If you want that, letting them know you are available is essential. That can only happen when you stay in touch with them. For instance, drop them a professional mail or call them up on festivals or important dates and more.
Do not try to sell yourself
If you are a budding reporter or journalist, do not try to sell yourself at an event. Whether the person whom you are looking to network with is from your field or not, it does not matter. Show interest in their life and work too. If you keep talking about yourself, it will not work. They will lose interest in building a connection with you. Thus, ask about their work, listen to their stories, and more to help build a connection.
Meet other journalists
In any industry event, you will meet many other journalists. Thus, it is essential that you greet them and not shun them away. A journalist community can help each other, and you should keep that in mind.
Knowing the right people can make a lot of difference. As a journalist, networking and making connections need to be your priority. It is all about getting people to trust you to share things with you, which they usually won’t. Try these tips now!
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