What are the “Do’s” and the “Don’ts” of effective business networking? Do you know what to do up-front, know what to do after the event, and basically have a foundational understanding of how to get lasting results from the network you embrace?
Well, we are happy to provide you with the “Do’s” and the “Don’ts” of effective business networking. Here are those dos – Before the Event – the “Do’s” of effective business networking.
Before the event here is what you should know – To have sustainable networking success, learn the skills you need first, then go to events. It’s a simple fact that great networking happens in advance – It’s the game, it’s the rules. The value of great networking is that it lasts a lifetime – Period.
Know who your audience is and get to know them there – You are not networking to sell your products and services. To be effective you need to know who you’re going to be speaking to and who’s likely to be interested in hearing what you have to say. Networking events are busy and having the correct mindset is very important to success. Once you have made the mental commitment to see your objectives achieved, keep a focus on the people you want to meet and treat all the others like a fish in a barrel. They’re not going to bite, but they’re the fish that makes a difference!
Be prepared to be approachable and take care of yourself – When you’re at a living and working place, the parties go fast. At most networking events I’ve attended I’ve seen half of the people there have not bought a thing for their friend or for their friend’s friend. Think carefully before you go to these events- you never know who is going to approach you. There is much more to networking than “acquaint yourself with lapak303“. The big difference is that they are confirming that they need help and that you are the one they should work with. Most business owners are looking for their roversial ” insurer recommending” buddy. These types are imagine like fish out of water and you probably won’t be that good.
Do ask a lot of questions – People like to talk. Make sure that you ask them questions about themselves and their business. Don’t ask meaningless questions like “Where are you from?” or “How long have you been an insurance agent?” Instead ask “How would you feel if…?” or “How did you move on from…?” or “What are the benefits of…” These types of questions are an opportunity to engage the conversation and make conversation about them, their values and their interests. They will be receptive to what you have to say.
Do launch into your 30 Second Pitch – Every back of the room will be a dumbfounded awkward silence. You’ve walked into the room and it’s completely cold there is no way anyone will stop talking. Well, that’s perfect for opening things up so no one can hegways into your statement or make you nervous. Now you have your 30-second pitch. About an hour for you to learn the proper way to say it. The thing that you want to know is what your goal is for the next 3 – 5 minutes. The next 10 – 20 minutes is about asking questions, generating conversation about your goal and trying to uncover a get to know you.
Do say “Thank You” – It is ALWAYS appreciated. First, make sure you have identified your goal for the next 3 – 5 minutes. Anybody can say “Thank You” – How would you enjoy hearing from you? How would you like to receive your information? What would you like to know? Ask questions about your intentions for the event. These types of questions are not finished questions, but are excellent questions that you need to be asking and learning for the “next 3 – 5 minutes”. The way that you ask questions sets you apart from everyone.
Do show your true selves – You are not trying to push your services or products on anyone. We all have personalities and you want to show what you are, not what you’re trying to sell. Let people know what their true motives are. People appreciate honesty, and they love to work with those that are open and honest with them. It’s important to be the real you, and then blend it in to your pitch. You want to be genuine, and then sell against that.
Do give business cards – At the event, do give out your cards. This are key because you say, “I was talking to so and so.” Now you have to follow up with them in a week, or a month, or a year. You want to be sure that you use all of the opportunities you have in the process.