It is generally accepted that soft skills training is an essential part of management training courses. However, whilst these courses often give general guidance on areas such as listening skills and reading body language, some individuals don’t seem to feel able to apply those lessons in a practical way. Let me give you an example.

Networking should not present people with a problem. However, how many times have you heard people complain that they don’t do networking as if it’s akin to committing a crime? The first thing to say is that networking goes on all the time. It is not restricted to networking events. Every time you meet someone who is a potential customer, or knows someone who is a potential customer, you are networking. However, there is not the pressure (often self-imposed) that goes with a networking event.

There are some things that you can do to help overcome any reservations. The first is to be interested in the people you are networking with. Ask them about what they do. Remember networking is a two way thing. Don’t just go up to people and start spouting.

Don’t feel the need to keep flitting between conversations. Try and spend at least five minutes with people. You are far more likely to bond with them and be remembered.