How to Be Attractive to Potential Networking Contacts

Romance develops in a large part due to of chemistry - both literally and metaphorically. So do successful business relationships.

Both genders emit pheromones to attract mates. These involuntary chemical releases hit potential mates in the nose, triggering biological responses.

One theory even holds that platonic relationships develop only if both parties are attracted to each other. Carried into the networking realm, that means both parties need to be attractive to the other. When attraction takes place, both parties tend to get in synch.

This is what chemistry is all about.

Now, here comes the part that could make some of you a little uneasy: this literal and metaphorical chemistry requires a little flirting. Yes, flirting. But not with the intention of knocking boots. Flirting for networking purposes is all about showing a few of your best traits.

So, whether you're a man or woman, it's a good thing to flirt a little - no matter the gender of the person you're networking with. But you don't need to put on blush, bat your eyes or even drop a handkerchief on the ground.

You only need to be attractive to those you want to network with to start the chemistry. And it's quite similar to attracting a mate (or date):

Always look good. You don't always need to wear a suit, tie or formal gown, but to attract someone for networking purposes (and create chemistry), you do need to have the best appropriate look for the particular situation. If, for instance, you're networking at a fancy event, formal wear is appropriate. Church picnic? Shorts and a polo shirt will work. Clean, fresh, well-matched clothing appropriate to the event is key.

Converse easily. Holding a conversation is a basic, yet essential social skill. Talk easily? You're seen as interesting and attractive. Have trouble speaking? You'll be seen as boring and unattractive. When was the last time you had chemistry with a boring person? To create professional chemistry, be able to talk on a wide range of topics and show a good sense of humor. Being well-rounded and humorous will make you attractive and pave the way to building good chemistry.

Ask for commitment. Being able to hold a conversation is important, but it's not the end-all, be-all. You need to ask your networking contact for follow up - to take action. Studies have shown that people actually like you more if you ask something of them. When looking for a mate, you ask for a date (in fact, a good conversation between interested parties without setting a date leads one of the parties to assume a lack of true interest on the other's part). When networking, you ask them for an off-line meeting where you can discuss ways you can mutually benefit each other professionally.

IN A NUTSHELL: Build chemistry by becoming attractive to those you want to network with. Look sharp, speak easily and ask for a commitment.