Course Plan for Enhancing Business Networking Skills Workshop

Session 1: Fundamentals of Networking (60 minutes)

• Introduction (10 minutes):
  • Workshop objectives overview.
  • Icebreaker activity to foster initial networking among participants.
• Setting Clear Objectives and Elevator Pitch Mastery (15 minutes):
  • Brief lecture on setting networking goals and crafting an effective elevator pitch.
  • Participants draft their own elevator pitch.
• Active Listening and Asking Open-Ended Questions (15 minutes):
  • Interactive role-play exercises focusing on listening and questioning skills.
• The Art of Following Up (10 minutes):
  • Strategies for effective follow-up: Discussion and examples.
  • Group activity: Crafting follow-up messages.
• Wrap-Up and Q&A (10 minutes):
  • Recap key takeaways.
  • Open floor for questions and sharing insights.

Session 2: Building Your Network (60 minutes)

• Leveraging Social Media and Networking Events Preparation (15 minutes):
  • Presentation on digital networking strategies and event preparation tips.
  • Participants share their experiences and plan a virtual networking strategy.
• Creating Value for Others and Diversifying Your Network (15 minutes):
  • Group discussion on creating mutual value and the importance of diverse networks.
• Personal Branding (20 minutes):
  • Mini-workshop on personal branding essentials, including online presence.
  • Participants work on outlining their personal brand strategy.
• Wrap-Up and Homework (10 minutes):
  • Summarize session insights.
  • Assign homework: Participants to refine their personal branding online.

Session 3: Advanced Networking Strategies (60 minutes)

• Strategic Partnerships and Cross-Cultural Networking (20 minutes):
  • Case studies analysis and group discussion on forming strategic partnerships and understanding cultural nuances in networking.
• Mentorship, Coaching, and Hosting Events (20 minutes):
  • Interactive segment on the benefits of mentorship and steps to host your own networking event.
  • Brainstorming session for event ideas.
• Confidence and Body Language (10 minutes):
  • Brief interactive workshop on non-verbal communication cues.
• Wrap-Up and Peer Feedback (10 minutes):
  • Participants share their planned event ideas for feedback.
  • Recap of key strategies discussed.

Session 4: Sustaining and Leveraging Your Network (60 minutes)

• CRM Systems for Networking and Virtual Networking (15 minutes):
  • Overview of CRM tools and virtual networking platforms.
  • Demonstration of LinkedIn features for networking.
• Giving and Receiving Feedback (15 minutes):
  • Role-play exercises focused on effective feedback within professional networking.
• Staying In Touch and Measuring Success (20 minutes):
  • Strategies for maintaining and leveraging networks.
  • Group activity to develop personal networking KPIs.
• Course Wrap-Up and CPD Points (10 minutes):
  • Summary of the workshop and discussion on implementing learned skills.
  • Explanation of CPD points accreditation and feedback collection.

This course plan ensures a balance between theory, practical exercises, and personal reflection, providing participants with a comprehensive toolkit to enhance their networking skills effectively.