Successful Networking Techniques

Do networking events make you nervous or uneasy? Would you like to maximize your return on the time you spend at networking events? Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your next networking event before you go, while you're there, and after you leave.

Before the Event

• Set Goals (Why are you going and what do you want to accomplish by going?)
• Practice Self-Introduction
• Bring Plenty of Business Cards
• Arrive Early
• Offer to Help

During the Event

• Keep Goal in Mind
• Strive to Get Out of Comfort Zone—Great Way to Build Skills
• Smile and Maintain Good Eye Contact
• Be Purposeful and Enthusiastic – Have an Idea of the Benefits of Attending
• Have Firm Handshake (but Not too Strong)
• Acknowledge Person’s Name in Shortly After Shaking Hands—Helps with Name Retention
• Talk to People Who are Alone
• Listen for Things You Have in Common
• Exchange Business Cards & Make Notes on Back
• Ask How You Can Help Them
• Sit at Separate Tables (if you’re in a group from the same company)

After the Event

• Follow Up – Meet for Coffee or Lunch
• Volunteer for a Committee – Will Help You Build Comfort Level with an Organization
• Give Referrals – Be a Resource

Four Steps of Conversation

Step 1: Small Talk – name, job, weather, or the situation that brings you together

Step 2: Fact Disclosure - occupation, hobbies

Step 3: Viewpoints & opinions - politics or your opinion of a certain person

Step 4: Personal Feelings - concern about a family situation or member

Rose Slaymaker
www.SendOutCards.com/24416
Nemec Marketing Group