Platinum Author
Ideal business networking is when like-minded individuals come together, build relationships, and become living-breathing advertisements for each other. It's about being reputable, trustworthy, and really understanding what your relationships can do to help one another. Here are 8 tips to lead you into
Networking Guru-dom.
1. Before attending a networking function, know your specific goals. If you do this, you will know which type of event to attend and even which groups to join.
2. Remember to ask open ended questions when you are having a networking conversation. Open ended question usually have the context of; who, what, when, where, why and how.
Questions that require a yes or no answer can end a conversation quickly. You want to open up communication and make the dialogue flow.
3. It is useful to become a living Resource Center. When people know that you are associated with dozens and dozens of contacts, you will be viewed as the source for advice, referrals, introductions, etc.. This of course, gives you the opportunity to strengthen relationships in your network.
4. Invest time in developing an effective "Elevator Speech". This is a 10-15 second pitch that you would say in between floors on an elevator ride if someone were to ask what you do.
It doesn't need to be cheesy or exaggerated, just interesting and to the point.
5. People who know what's going on in the world current happenings always look sharp. It's an easy social skill to begin a conversation or make a comment about what's going on. It can be a great icebreaker or a conversation filler.
6. Take healthy time to develop a good vibe before exchanging business cards with a colleague. Some people throw their business card at you before even beginning to speak. A person may find this rude and you can lose points if doing business is a possibility.
7. You have probably heard it many times but following up is the key to being a Networking Guru. You can send an e-mail or make a phone call and it's important to mention aspects of your conversation. This will bring back fond memories of your encounter.
8. It is vitally import that you follow through and treat the referrals you are given with the the utmost respect. Remember, when you are given a referral that you are representing the referrer. This is even more important than representing yourself. Make this a habit and you will become not only become an excellent networker but a thriving success.
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About this Author
John H. Lee (JohnTheNetworker) is a Lead Generation Specialist, Host, and Consultant, of professional and social events in the Greater Philadelphia Area, Philadelphia Pennsylvania.
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