Networking isn't just about exchanging business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn. Companies who focus on cultivating connections experience higher retention and growth when employees are engaged.  This profound message resonates throughout the latest episode of HerCsuite®  Radio, where host Natalie Benamou sits down with networking strategist, author and speaker, Diane Darling, to discuss how employees crave connection.5 Networking Power Tips:1. **Have a Role**: Diane suggests taking on a role at the networking event to avoid feeling like an "unemployed networker." Whether it's introducing the speaker, picking them up from the airport, or handling name tags, having a role gives you a purpose and a reason to engage with others.2. **Pre-Send Yourself**: Before attending the event, reach out to speakers or leaders of the organization on LinkedIn to introduce yourself. This "pre-send" approach allows you to make connections before you even step into the room.3. **Prepare Conversation Starters**: Diane recommends having two or three starter conversations ready to initiate interactions. These could be simple questions like "Tell me how you know the company," or "Tell me your role here." Having these questions at the ready can ease the initiation of dialogue.4. **Approach Individuals**: Look for  individuals who are by themselves at the event. Diane refers to this as her "silver bullet" for networking, as it often means the person is approachable and will welcome conversation, helping both of you feel more comfortable.5. **Networking-Friendly Set-Up**: If you're organizing the event, or even if you're just attending, pay attention to how the environment is set up to facilitate interactions.On a corporate level, encourage employees to connect before, and post meetings and events.3 Ways to Create a Networking Culture:1. **Conversation Starters**: Provide employees with tools that include interactive conversation starters. This will encourage employees at every level to engage. Encourage employees to initiate discussions and build connections with colleagues before, during and after meetings or events..2. **Virtual Networking Preparation**: Create a spreadsheet with employees' names, LinkedIn profiles, and interesting personal facts. This will help kickstart conversations and make virtual interactions more personal and engaging.3. **Encourage Proactive Networking**: Suggest employees reach out to colleagues  before a meeting or event either virtually or in person. This connection strategy helps employees feel engaged before, during and after a meeting or event.Implementing these strategies can help employees feel more comfortable and engaged in networking opportunities, whether in person or virtual, contributing to a more connected and collaborative workplace culture.Thank you Diane, for being a valued member of HerCsuite® Innovation Women Network Hub and for sharing your wisdom today. Shoutout to alliance partner Bobbie Carlton, Founder, Innovation Women.About Diane DarlingDiane Darling is a keynote speaker and author of The Networking Survival Guide and Networking for Career Success (both published by McGraw Hill in 9 languages). She speaks about networking, intergenerational workforce, and dealing with difficult people and has spoken globally on 1000s of stages including MIT Charm School (yes, that is a thing).Resources:Diane Darling on LinkedInwww.DianeDarling.comAbout HerCsuite®HerCsuite®HerCsuite® LinkedInNatalie Benamou on LinkedIn