Shake Some Hands
For today’s post, I wanted to talk about networking. In a previous post, we discussed the business card and how important it is to have one, and have one with you.
Networking can bring about images of people standing alone in a seminar, expo, workshop, after hours, or company party. Business people, just standing there, practicing their hand shake and business pitch. A sea of dodging eyes and uncomfortable silence, broken by small talk that can suck the life out of you… Okay, maybe I’m overdoing it, but we’ve all been there.
I recommend the following:
- Learn by observing the people around you (And, read! I really like this guy and this guy and this guy.)
- Have a bunch of business cards, easily accessible. Just resist the urge to throw them at people.
- Know yourself. (Can you easily explain what your business does? Who is a good type of client and/or referral partner? Mr. Misner is incredible at networking. Check out his website here.)
- Be an asset. (Help others, you need to be an expert in your industry. Show how you can help!)
- Keep up on current events. You’ll be able to have meaningful conversations. ( I use Google Reader to collect all the news I follow. It organizes everything into one location for easy access.)
- Follow through. If you can help make a connection for someone or be a resource, then don’t put it off!
- Take notes. (I have no shame in flipping a new connections card over and write notes about them, or if I can help them.)
These are just a few things to keep in mind while networking. I wish I could claim ownership of this list, but they have been repeated by many terrific networkers. Go visit your local library and take advantage of those free resources!!
Photo Credit: oooh.oooh
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