You're navigating the public speaking world. How can you level up your networking game?

Offline, try to speak to more people. Find out what opportunities they have Find communities that align with your interest. For example, the Brand Builder Talents I joined is a marketing services community, linked me up with a supportive community of content creators, coaches and speakers. Not only did I learn a lot from the members, but they also liked and promoted my content, which added credence and enhanced my personal branding. I only learnt about it after speaking to their founder in an event. It wouldn't be possible to engage everyone you had met offline. For people to remember you, continue to post meaningful content on social media. Of course, continue to like, comment and engage users. Humans treasure reciprocality.

To level up your networking game in the public speaking world, elevate your presence both online and offline. Online, create a professional website showcasing your speaking topics, testimonials, and videos of past speeches. Engage with your audience on social media platforms by sharing insights, posting regularly, and participating in relevant discussions. Offline, attend industry conferences, workshops, and networking events to meet other professionals and potential clients. For example, by consistently sharing valuable content on LinkedIn and actively participating in speaking engagements, you can build a strong network that enhances your visibility and credibility in the public speaking arena.

To elevate your presence in public speaking a combination of growing both online and networking offline is needed. Virtually, enhance your social media presence with engaging content- storytelling techniques, public speaking tips, your learnings and success stories. Regularly post insights, participate in relevant groups, and engage with your network's content to increase visibility. Offline, attend industry events, workshops, and conferences to build relationships. Have a strong elevator pitch, and be genuinely curious about others' work. Follow up on connections with personalized messages. Make sure people remember you as being both knowledgeable and trustworthy while being an expert in your field.

जो दिखता है वो बिकता है। In the digital world, being consistent in your content creation helps build your brand presence organically and connect with the online community. I have attended an online trainer certification course, and through the network of that batch, I got a few offline assignments. Offline, I am part of many meeting clubs that elevate my network. As we all know, no matter which field you belong to, your network is your net worth.

When trying to establish connections, do not try to be nagging or needy. Make the interaction free of expectations. Connect genuinely and leave it at that. Channelise your energies in making yourself impactful. Keep learning new skills, new stories, new techniques.

When it comes to networking, engagement is very important, and engaging with genuine interest is what we need to make it truly impactful. In the best-selling book "How to Win Friends and Influence People," author Dale Carnegie suggests: "If you want others to like you, if you want to develop a real network, and if you want to help others while also helping yourself, keep this principle in mind: become genuinely interested in other people." This approach will also benefit us as speakers, as it allows us to learn from and share experiences with one another.

I view it this way: the seed of a new connection is sown at the first meeting. To help that connection grow into a plant and eventually a big tree that benefits both parties, it is very important to reach out and follow up at regular intervals.

To level up your networking game in the public speaking world, you can offer value to others. For example, when attending industry events or conferences, identify speakers or attendees who might benefit from your expertise or connections. Reach out to them with a genuine offer to help, such as sharing insights, providing feedback on their presentations, or introducing them to relevant contacts. By consistently offering value without expecting immediate returns, you build strong, mutually beneficial relationships that elevate your networking efforts and reputation in the public speaking community.

Recently, I attended two events that were slightly different from typical public speaking events. The first was Startup Sphere, organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. The second was the Global Education Summit on Commerce and Accountancy. Both events helped me network with people from diverse industries and provided me with a new perspective on startup businesses and collaboration in the education sector.

To level up your networking game in the public speaking world with continuous learning, you can actively seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. For example, attend workshops, webinars, and conferences related to public speaking and communication. Engage with experts and peers in these settings, ask questions, and participate in discussions. By staying informed about the latest trends and techniques, you can bring fresh insights to your interactions and demonstrate your commitment to growth. This approach not only enhances your expertise but also makes you a valuable connection to others in the industry.

Be great. Explore new methods and channels. Share your stories beyond the paywall. Communicate your practices with your network. Celebrate others' success. Deliver value without expecting it back.

There are many great public speakers out there, but the ones who get the best and the highest-paid speaking engagements, are the ones who take the time to build their brand on social media, mainly through video content. The power of Personal Branding through content, to gain exposure, and credibility, showcase your knowledge and attract opportunities, is undeniable in 2024. It still amazes me why some people question the need to invest in building their personal brand. It takes knowledge, time and investment, but the results are worth it and you will see the invitations flowing in from everywhere, so you will be able to pick the best for you, rather than chasing after opportunities.