“Networking connects new people, builds rapport and nurtures relationships for mutual benefit. In short, networking is the art of relationship building,” explained Sally Robson, chief operating officer of HSBC Malta, at the Business Networking Event 2008 of the Junior Chamber International Malta.

Organised by JCI Malta, the Business Networking Event allows JCI members to meet 16 new business contacts and leads in just 90 minutes. In its first two years, this event has already generated more than 1,200 one-to-one meetings and helped numerous companies and individuals expand their network. HSBC Malta has been one of the main sponsors of JCI Malta for a number of years.

In her brief address, Mrs Robson explained from her personal experience why networking is important and gave a number of hints and tips for effective networking.

“In spite of the massive use of technology, people still do business with people. Business is personal – people help and support people who they know and trust. So it is very important to build and nurture networks,” she advised.

Studies show that we make our mind up about people within the first three to five seconds that we meet them, therefore a clear strategy and preparation are both important if you are to successfully connect with people.

One final tip by HSBC’s CCO was that although someone may not look ideal for what one has to offer, people always know people. Our world is actually smaller than we think – and Malta in particular – so, one should never burn a bridge.