The more people that you meet and expose to your business, the better your business’ chances of success. Make the most of your time at networking events.
1. Sit with people you don’t know. I often carpool with other business partners when I attend events that are out of the county. We gab in the car, but as soon as we arrive, it’s “See ya in an hour”. We never sit together. What’s the point? THE GOAL IS TO MEET AS MANY NEW PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE
2. Embrace every photo op! “Bad hair days” and “fat days” go out the window when I’m networking. Why? Photos taken at events are often posted to the company’s website, included in publications and press releases. FREE PUBLICITY FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS
3. Dress professionally. FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE MADE WITHIN THE FIRST 3 SECONDS OF MEETING AND ARE IRREVERSIBLE. Leave the casual clothes for your weekend outings. I’ve been to events where people look like they’re ready to go bar hopping or on a family outing. Need I say more?
4. Show genuine interest. People like to talk about themselves. Ask open ended questions to learn about the person, what they do and how you can help. LISTEN- LISTEN - LISTEN Just as importantly, FOCUS ON THE PERSON IN FRONT OF YOU. There is nothing more frustrating or insulting to me when I’m engaged in conversation with someone, and they’re looking over my shoulder to see who they want to talk to next. What am I, chopped liver?
5. Work the room. Name Badge on? Check! Stack of Business Cards in pocket? Check! Positive attitude? Check! Now walk around and introduce yourself. Approach those you haven’t met, those standing by themselves and those you haven’t communicated with in a long time. MAKE EVERY MINUTE COUNT AND HAVE FUN WITH IT!
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