| Networking Do's and Don'ts |
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Holding Up That Wall, Dude? So last night I attended a company's business open house. What fun! They had it all--food, giant TV's, door prizes and most importantly for this crowd, plenty of beer! There were about 250 people there and most were networking pretty well, based on the conversations I overheard. When I attend events, my goal is always simple. To meet AND get to know 2-3 people so that there's a quality connection for the future. Collecting random business cards to chug up our database isn't the objective. I'm interested in relationships in mutually satisfying business for the future. That's what makes the sales world go 'round, and I'm all for it! Not only did I reach my goal of connecting well to 3 people while there, I also had one-on-ones with the VP who invited me, his COO, and the CEO; all in three different conversations. When you consider the vast number of people at this event, I'm confident that this was truly a successful evening. If you aren't a networker, but a wall-hugger (like one of the gentleman I met), here are my top "5 do's and don t's tips" for you to read over, absorb, and follow, BEFORE your next event: 1. Pick a group that communicates before you go. I've been to functions where everyone seemed to hold up their own special piece of their wall and it was useless. I love people and enjoy talking (duh), but can't carry on two sides of two conversations. I'm not that interesting and don't have a nickname of "Sybill". Many of the invitations today have a list of those attending in the Evite. If you can view a title or know some of the attendees, that helps you decide whether or not this is the event for you. Make intelligent business decisions--you only have so much time and resources to expend. Making the time worth your while is worth it's weight in gold. 2. Come prepared. If you show up and by the third connection, realize you don't have enough cards with you, that's pathetic. Stuff your pocket, purse, briefcase,or man-bag with your cards and make sure you have enough for 4 events with you! Telling someone you don't have any cards is not a positive first impression. Be ready! 3. Scope out the room before swooping in. Look around. Who is dressed well, who appeals to you from a demographic or personality standpoint. If you are outgoing, see who else has a smile on their face and talks with their hands. You'll probably connect within seconds! If you are more introverted, find the less-hyper person and start a conversation with him/her. Have your opener ready. My favorite is: "What's your connection to..." (fill in the blank with "organization", "party", etc.) You are likely to get an answer perhaps with a story that you can continue a conversation with. Now you have a start! 4. Now for two "Dont's". First, avoid thrusting a card into some unsuspecting person's face; especially if this is a person with a title. C-level execs are hounded by people trying to get their attention and the sycophants are sometimes running rampart at these events. Take it easy. Get to know the person first. Keep your card hidden until the timing is right. When you present it, hand it outward so that the card is FACING the recipient. Oh, and if you are keeping your cards in your wallet (guys...) ewww! No one wants a wrinkled butt-shaped card from there. Think about it. 5. Don't ask for business from someone there. It puts people on the spot. You can plan a phone call, a follow-up, or best yet, provide your new friend with a lead or something you can help THEM with. Last night, I heard a very unprofessional guy ask the COO to "use him" when they have business. The COO smiled and nodded, clearly sending the message, "I heard you and am not biting", especially since it's not his decision at that level. Want more ideas? Email me at: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and ask for my "Top 10 Networking Tips". I'll send you an email for you to network professionally and make connections to generate more sales. (c)Renee Walkup, All Rights Reserved, www.salespeak.com 678 587-9911 |
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