What should and should not be done in the networks
I always like to speak at networking events. I get there an hour early to get everything ready for my presentation and then I stand in the back of the room and watch people walk in.
Here’s the opportunity for you to rub shoulders with other professionals, and yet the most common thing to do…a hesitation to walk in, a “look and see” for anyone you recognize, and then a beeline for that person and a somersault. of a napkin on the back of your chair to ensure a “safe seat”. What a bad investment!
The goal of networking is to EXPAND and EXCELLERATE opportunities to be of service to others. By far, being a knowledge resource to connect others with those who can help is a much better position to fill than the “salesperson” who is selling your stuff.
The business has changed dramatically. At a meeting this woman had 4 different business card holders and she had to decide which one to give me. At this very meeting a man came up and confronted me with his brochure in my face and quickly filled me in on all the features of his business. He was looking for a plug that he could pull to stop the recording! So in honor of them… I wrote this poem….
The Unproductive Networker
I am an unproductive networker
I have cards in the wazoo
no one wants to talk to me
Or ask me what I do
I just can’t figure it out
I do not know what is the problem
I have cards of many colors
why and that and this
I sell insurance and juices
I have vitamins in abundance
I set up websites on the side
And I sell candles in my store
I teach yoga in my free time.
And help smokers who want to quit
I prepare puppies on weekends
And even clean… shit… kick
I work hard all day and night.
And I am also dedicated
I want to have that real success.
for me and also for you
So will someone please help me?
and tell me what to do
I am open to advice
I am listening to you
So let me give you some quick tips on what to do and what not to do to prepare yourself when networking.
DO – Think about the PURPOSE of the meeting you are attending. Who is going to be there? How can you be a resource to that audience of people? Have that card ready to hand out and only that card.
NO – Draw all cards for each business you represent. It just seems like you’re scattered and not focused or serious about doing business.
DO: Ask more questions about what the other person is looking for and why they came to this particular meeting.
NO – Present your product or services. No one is going to get out their checkbook and order and pay tonight. Be patient and keep in mind that people do business with people they like and know, so focus more on getting to know that person and the product they represent.
To follow! It amazes me how many people stack their cards and put rubber bands around them and that’s it. Can you remember who you saw when? Did you call, write, or email them to maintain a relationship with these people?
I believe that if you breathe air you bring a gift to the party of life. When I walk into a room, I can’t wait to unwrap those gifts to find common ground and THEN do business. Give it a try – it makes networking exciting and FUN!