This is how you build your network successfully!

Tijen Onaran knows the best networking tips

Anyone looking for tips on networking is in the right place at Tijen Onaran. After all, the digital expert has not only written a whole book on the art and importance of networking with "The Network Bible", but she also campaigns for the networking and visibility of women in the digital industry with her initiative "Global Digital Women". In short, she is the perfect contact person for the 20 female Entrepreneurs of the Future, a joint initiative of Global Digital Women, German Businesswomen's Association, ChroniquesDuVasteMonde Academy and Amazon. In the funding program, the clever businesswoman acts as a co-initiator and passes on her valuable tips as a coach. Speaking of which: The network pro tells us in advance where the best contacts can be made and why patience is also an important virtue in networking.

Do you have an example from my own experience why networks are so important?

Several years ago I quit my employment without having anything new. Many who have already experienced or observed my work have recommended me as a self-employed communications consultant. Without my network, I would not be where I am right now. A good network will help you, especially in times of crisis.

Which are the best places to socialize?

I have already met exciting people in the train or at the airport. The unexpected encounters are often the most beautiful and sustainable. Networks can be everywhere, you just have to get involved.

How do I know which contacts? maybe also in the long term? are useful for me?

To know what I want from my network, I have to start with myself first. At which point of my career am I? Is it about networking with people who have all the talents I do not have to spread skills? Or do I want to build a network of industry colleagues to seek advice? Only when I know what I want and what I do not, can I network sustainably.

UdZ co-initiator 2019: Tijen Onaran of Global Digital Women

What would you wish for female entrepreneurs in terms of networking?

What I observe is that we are still very reserved in Germany. Quickly networks are equated with nepotism. At the same time, a network is a guide, a talent pool and a crisis-maker.

Which are the absolute no-gos?

There are many people who are expectation networkers and want a contact to bring something directly or a favor to be immediately reflected in a counterfeit. But networking is cross-country skiing, not a sprint. Sometimes it takes quite a while for an opportunity to give and take.

How can initial shyness be overcome?

When someone is more reserved, digital channels help. First of all, I can watch online and I am not forced to react directly. At events, preparation is everything. If I know which people are coming together at an event or which debates are currently shaping the theme of the event, I can do much better. In addition, it helps to not overwhelm yourself and to start by addressing a person at the event.

What happens after you make new contacts?

I recommend adding the new contacts directly to one of the social media platforms. This also helps to maintain sustainable contact and stay informed. Today it's easier than ever to network directly from the couch. I no longer have to spend countless meetings or phone calls every day, but I can keep in touch digitally.

With the joint initiative "Women Entrepreneurs of the Future", the Association of German Businesswomen, Global Digital Women, ChroniquesDuVasteMonde Academy and Amazon are promoting for the second time owners and managers of companies that are expanding their stationary business by launching their online business or their existing online business Want to expand the presence. At the core of the program is the individual accompaniment of all participants by expert coaches? all experienced company founders, e-commerce experts, Amazon retailers or bloggers. Further information about the program can be found at: www.unternehmerinnenderzukunft.de