101 Working A Room: Networking advice for those looking to maximize their gains
Networking events offer great opportunities to meet new people, but there is a right way — and most certainly a wrong way — to conduct yourself at such an event.
Implementing the following suggestions will guarantee that your next networking experience is a successful one.
Talk small. “Never underestimate the value of small talk,” advises the team at strategicbusinessnetwork.com. “Some people feel small talk is waste of time, but such small conversations can often lead to BIG business.
Small talk provides insight into a person’s interests, values and needs.”
Think like a predator. If you have ever watched a documentary on African predators, you know that the cheetah that can separate a wildebeest from the herd is the one most likely to score a meal.
That same approach works when networking. “Look for people standing alone,” says Dean Lindsay at rileyguide.com, an employment resource website. “These folks may be nervous, and your initiative will often endear you to them.”
Avoid complacency. Remember, the room is full of potential connections. “Don’t stay too long in one place,” says Diane Mashia at rileyguide.com. “After eight to 10 minutes, excuse yourself with a pleasantry such as, ‘It was nice meeting you….’”
Be curious. “Instead of worrying about what you will say to others about yourself and your business, focus on asking questions,” says Bruce Katcher at rileyguide.com. “There is no greater compliment you can bestow on someone than to ask them about themselves.”
Don’t be a stranger. “It is much better to be active in one professional association than to periodically attend meetings of five or ten,” says Katcher. “It takes time for people to recognize you, view you as a colleague, and trust you.”
WBJ Web Partners
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