As a financial analyst, you will be involved in lots of networking events. Do you ever feel intimidated doing business networking with associates in higher positions or with clients you've never met? Do you ever feel like you don't know what to say to them or how to be around them?

Some people have a knack for socializing. If you're not one of them, be assured that it is a skill that can be learned. The most important thing to remember is be authentic. Here are five tips to help you get started.

Deliver a winning first impression without speaking a word. Choose a body language that speaks confidence. Hold your head high. Project a warm smile and always maintain eye contact. To prep yourself for the networking event, imagine the enthusiasm as if you're meeting an old friend whom you haven't met in a long time.

Check out the latest news before you leave for the meeting, not only the financial market news but also any big news of the moment. If you know that the person you're meeting is from out of town, check for news from his hometown. News items can be great ice breakers.

Let the other person take the center stage. Work on focusing your attention and conversation on the other person. Depending on what's appropriate for your meeting, you can ask about the other person's work or personal interests.

Practice active listening. You'll captivate the talker by speaking less. The majority of people enjoy talking about themselves. They'll enjoy the conversation so much they won't notice you have hardly spoken.

Begin your sentences with "You." "You" is a magical word that hooks attention and flatters egos. Instead of "I like your new report on the housing market," you could say "You shared some excellent ideas on the housing market in your new report."

Rather than saying, "I like your outfit," say "You look fantastic in this suit." You'll find people want to talk to you more because you're different from most people - most people prefer to focus on themselves.

If you're ever lost for words, repeat the last phrase and turn it into a question. Sometimes there may be uncomfortable moments when you don't know much about the subject and have trouble carrying on the conversation.

"The recent restructuring at this bulge bracket investment bank will affect over 1,000 employees." "Over a thousand employees?" The ball is now back in their court. This trick works every time.

Get out there more often. Most people are friendly. As with any other skills, one sure way to improve is to practice, practice and practice. With practice, you'll become a financial analyst who is masterful at networking.


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Corinne Lor is a former financial analyst who now coaches other analysts. She is also the author of Financial Analyst Blog.