3 things not to do and their fixes -
Last week we discovered the secrets of a natural born networker. Once you’re comfortable asking questions, how do you fit more in when time is at a premium?
The time you spend business networking is important. Here are 3 things not to do, their fixes and a tip to help improve your results.
Turn up late
It might be an early start if it’s a breakfast meeting yet what happens if most people leave as soon as it’s finished? You might not get to meet the one person that has what you want. The early bird does catch the worm and you can greet everyone as they arrive. At least they’ll all know who you are and that you’re friendly. Smile please!
Forget why you are there
Business networking is a form of marketing so prepare to give short clear messages about what you do; the end result for your would be clients is what is most important. Who do you want to be introduced to? You can’t be introduced to “anyone, someone or everyone” yet there are unlimited connections if networkers are specific. Note the word unlimited, there really isn’t a limit to what can be achieved through networking if time is spent wisely.
Leave early
Especially if you turned up late! If the most valuable networker in the room got there late and you’re leaving early you are not going to get the most out of the time you spend there. Your aim should be to say hello to a handful of people. Standing by the door may be a bit much! Yet you should hang around until you’ve spoken to as many people as possible.
Wrap up: Get there early, give clear messages and stay as late as you can. If the event is 2 hours long being there for an extra 6 minutes before and 6 minutes after adds 10% to the time you spend engaging people.
Top tip; This is especially valuable if the event includes a seminar.
Beyond Networking is a networking results company. It will take five minutes to determine if anything they do will save you time and effort when networking.
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Jason, spot on about turning up late at networking event.
I must confess, yesterday I attended a business network event organised by ecadamy’s 12th birthday party. There was a networking slot between 6.00 – 7.30 and I arrived very late.
I managed to speak to only three people before the event seminar which was the most important part for me.
I was hoping to talk to more people after the seminar as there was further networking after the seminar on the agenda.
To my surprise!! after the seminar the networking hall was empty. So I strongly agree not to attend any event late if you mean business and don’t want to waste time.
Hi, thanks for your comments Lillian. There are 1440 minutes in a day and every one is precious.
Like the style of 3 short key points – and a description – not too much information in one go!!
Still think some visuals would help!!
Dan – CartoonBox
I love visuals too – I couldn’t think of a visual for this. Perhaps an image of someone trapped in a revolving door and looking confused?
Have you got one that’s pertinent for this post? I’d love to see it!