Wittenborg CEO Shares Her Ultimate Networking Guide

30.04.2024

Maggie Feng Shares Her Most Effective Networking Strategies

Wittenborg CEO Maggie Feng compares her networking strategy to attending a distant friend's wedding. While you might know the bride, you don't necessarily know the groom or any of their other friends and relatives in attendance. So, instead of idly wondering or scrolling through your phone, it is best to network and start making connections.

Networking events often resemble this scenario, where you may not know anyone initially. That is why she is sharing her ultimate guide to help Wittenborg students, staff, or anyone for that matter, to network effectively and make meaningful connections.

Preparation is key

Feng says that the first step is always to prepare accordingly.

"If you are attending a networking event, the first step is to Google and find the correct location."

Even more importantly, you should Google and research the main speakers or hosts of the event.

"Search for them on LinkedIn and reach out. Whether you know them or not, send a message. You can always say something like, 'I'm looking forward to seeing you at this or that event'. If you don't reach out, that is your loss. Be blunt and strong in terms of reaching out."

Feng says that the second step is to prepare.

Describe yourself in five sentences

"Put together five sentences to describe yourself. It is important to mention, for instance, where you come from, your study focus, your background, and if you have any work experience. You want to sell yourself and make yourself unique."

Feng says that it is important to mention these five sentences before announcing what your job status is.

What might help is to practise in front of the mirror, according to Feng.

"Even record yourself or ask other friends to listen to your five sentences because you only have one shot at making a good first impression."

Another important factor is to enunciate.

"You need to ensure clarity in your communication. Speaking too softly, especially in noisy environments, can be a problem. Your audience shouldn't struggle to hear you or ask you to repeat yourself."

Focus on numbers

Feng says that people remember numbers. People often meet a lot of new faces at a networking event, so numbers are a great way to stand out.

"For instance, mention something like, 'I have three years of experience at KPMG'. Numbers have a memorable impact on people."

Your appearance matters

Your appearance is very important during networking events.

"See if you can find photos of previous events to see how people dressed," she advises.

Feng brings this back to her distant friend's wedding metaphor, saying that if you feature in photos at a wedding, you want to stand out. It is best to avoid black and navy in this case.

This applies not only to your clothing but also to your overall appearance. "You need to look neat. Make sure your body odour is in check and avoid wearing strong cologne or perfume."

The art of the handshake

How do you make contact with someone? With a firm handshake, of course.

Feng emphasises that the first impression is all about the handshake. When you approach someone, smile, extend your hand and shake firmly.

"If your hand is cold, it's common in the Netherlands to apologise. You can say, 'I've just come in from outside, apologies for my cold hands'. Aim for a handshake that's neither too long nor too short. Practise this with your family and friends!"

And make sure to always introduce yourself with your full name. Networking at Wittenborg's upcoming job fair in Apeldoorn, for instance, networking might resemble the following: "After introductions, you can enquire whether they are seeking any English-speaking talent, if that is your goal. You can then express how your background aligns with their current vacancies and ask about the application process."

Feng suggests asking questions such as: Are positions typically posted on your website, or should I contact your HR department directly? Are you open to hiring internationally? Based on my knowledge, graduates from Dutch universities often have a higher success rate. Do you have experience hiring individuals from abroad? Could you also share what your company excels in, and how many people are currently employed there?

Ending the conversation

The next step is to know how to politely end the conversation.

"Keep some documentation handy that you'd like to share, or politely ask for a business card. You could simply say, 'Thank you very much for all of this information. Is it possible to receive your business card or exchange cards?' Additionally, you may ask, 'Can I find you on LinkedIn?' LinkedIn often offers a QR code feature that allows for easy contact sharing and connection."

When there is a queue

If the situation comes up where you have to wait in a queue, as is the case during most job fairs or even book-signing events, wait patiently and listen.

"If you can't engage in a conversation, try to participate if possible because networking events are not meant for a private one-on-one environment anyway. Showing interest and being proactive is important in such situations. The worst behaviour, I'd say, is when individuals simply stand there like a plant, showing no interest and constantly on their phones."

Other notes

Feng says that networking is like riding a bicycle in the Netherlands: you need to do it at some point or another.

"You don't have anything to lose; you are not at a job interview or making a €10 million deal. You are simply meeting people and making connections."

Feng also shares some important titbits, saying that networking events are not a place to catch up with your friends.

"Also, if you can, drink out of a wine glass. See if the snacks are appropriate to eat. Sometimes you have to hold them in your hand. If there are plates, even better. Otherwise, eat beforehand. It is not great to meet new people with food in your mouth.

"And most importantly, if you are the host of the event, make sure to introduce yourself to others and make them feel welcome."