ATLANTA – As more women become a growing force in leadership within the convenience and fuel-  industry, it’s important that they focus on building other female relationships both personally and professionally. The act of making connections and exchanging information with other people and groups is vital to building professional relationships.

In a room of about 60 women, and interestingly one man, Lori Mullins, director of learning, talent and professional development at RaceTrac Petroleum, led attendees through the steps to successful networking.

The goal of networking is to “exchange information with other people, groups and institutions to develop mutually beneficial relationships,” Mullins said. “What that means is focusing on building those relationships, creating connections and fostering meaningful two-way dialogue. We network on a regular basis, but don’t always realize it.”

Networking occurs naturally everywhere, from the NACS Show each year to sporting events, the airport and even a long line at the grocery store.

Preparation is key to enhancing your networking experience. Have business cards in your pocket and your elevator pitch ready. Include your name, company and role, as well as where your current focus is centered within that role. Discuss something interesting you’ve recently learned or perhaps a topic you’re interested in learning more about. Maintain a professional presence and speak with confidence.

“These are the qualities people will remember about you and make them want to connect with you again,” said Mullins. “You want to be seen as the person others want to get to know, want to learn from, and want to be friends with.” She added: 

• Your goal is to become the person others will seek out for best practices.
• Your non-verbal cues are equally important: stand up straight, don’t cross your arms, make eye contact and dress professionally.

Participate in the conversation. Share your own stories, listen, encourage dialogue and have fun. Have a few stories in your back pocket. You never know when you might need them. People learn as much from a bad experience you may have had as one where you succeeded easily.

Be present. Don’t check your email or send a quick text while engaging with other professionals. Ask open-ended questions: How? What? Why? Then really listen to the answers without interrupting. Allow the person to finish their thought before speaking.

“You may learn some best practices that you can, in turn, take back to your own company,” said Mullins.

She reminded the audience that when developing mutually beneficial relationships, you are fostering two-way communication and gaining personal benefits.

“The people who maintain the best networks put in the extra effort to stay in touch,” Mullins said. “I encourage you to reach out to the partnerships you are developing this week. Follow up and look for future opportunities to reconnect.

“Become inspired by the successes and challenges of other women in this industry and the connections you make.”