Business directory for the Central Coast of NSW, Australia
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Here are some quick tips to ensure you get the best results from your networking efforts.
Whether it’s in general conversation or during the 30 second presentations (not at all networking events). Always show the speaker your full attention. It’s the polite thing to do but importantly it also builds rapport with them. When they’re finished talking it means they’ll do the same for you. Occasionally this won’t be the case but it’s usually because they’re too preconsumed with their business, you don’t want to be dealing with them anyway.
As with so many elements to networking, you can trust in the law of reciprocity. When you give or do something you will receive that in kind. In this instance you are allowing the other person to share their business or point of view and in time they will then ask you about your business. It’s much easier to educate them on your business when they ask for it rather than trying to shove it down their throat.
Just like a TV commercial or YouTube video, this is the face of your business. A well articulated 30 second presentation can make the difference between someone wanting to deal with you or going elsewhere. A good 30 second presentation will convey authority (you know what your talking about), confidence, and energy. It makes people think, I really want to deal with you because you’re an expert in your field.
Checkout our article on creating a Dynamite Elevator Pitch for more information. The key is to make it targeted about who your looking for as a client and make it memorable (in a good way). Standing out from the crowd can be difficult and nerve racking but the results can be astonishing.
When you get someones business card, the first thing to do is write down where you met them, a interesting point about them and any followups you have (read the next tip).
Following up on what you said you would do is the most critical thing to do outside of the networking meeting. It shows that you’re a man (or woman) of your word and that you are trustworthy to do the things you say you will. Also by creating followups you have a reason to contact them again which makes you stand out from all the other people they met at the networking event.
It’s not just a case of following up with people you spoke to and things you said you would do. You need to follow-up in a timely manner. Following up within the next day or two shows them that there are important to you and again builds trust. It also keeps you top of mind and keeps them thinking about your service.
Shaking hands is a cultural practice when you are introduced to people in Australia and when you’re at a networking function, you’ll be introduced to plenty of people. During any business function (or social for that matter), it’s always important to keep your right hand free to shake the hands of new acquaintances. The shaking of a hand creates a physical connection between you and them.
It can send a pretty bad signal when your juggling a plate of food, a drink, or folders just to shake hands. Especially given that it’s during those first critical seconds of an introduction where first impressions are formed. And remember first impressions count. The other benefit is that you don’t have a cold, hot or sweaty hand that can feel awkward when someone shakes your hand.
Find Central Coast Networking Groups
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