 The
Irresistible Networker - How to make an Unforgettable Presence
By Laurel von Pander of Diamond Star Coaching Inc.
When you go to networking or business functions do you go to them with the intention to
get new clients? The likely answer is YES YOU DO. Do you think it’s realistic to get
a “home run” on your first pitch? Likely, the answer is NO. Would you like some
“Tips” on Networking Etiquette or (Net-iquette)? Then read on!
1. Business Cards - The first step is very simple. Remember to bring
business cards to EVERY EVENT! If you need to, keep an ample supply in your car. Now for
some of you this may seem pretty silly, but I cannot tell you how many times I have seen
this. Great networking, lots of people and no business cards! I want you to know this is a
lasting (FIRST) impression. Is this the impression you want people to have of you? Do you
want to have to write your information on a napkin?
2. Make an Effort to Remember Everyone’s Name - When we make an
effort to remember each person’s name it reflects upon us. For those of you who are
challenged or concerned, “I never seem to remember names”, try a mental word
association. It may be something like Ann Blaire with ABC Widgets. You see how I’ve
emphasized the AB of ABC Widgets.
Another great approach is to try repeating the name (mentally), then
verbally as you greet this person and give them eye contact. The more you can repeat the
name, the more likely you will remember.
3. What to Talk About - Many people are uncomfortable in social or
networking functions because they don’t know what to talk about. So… Ask
questions. It may help you to remember if you ask the five Who, What, Where, When, Why
questions. Who are their clients? What is the product or service they offer? Where are
they located? When did they start their business? Why did they choose this business?
People do love to talk about themselves! You will become irresistible to this person,
because you show an interest in THEM!
4. Ask For Their Business Card - This is irresistible and a refreshing
change to be asked instead of sold at a business function. Some people may be surprised
you actually asked for their card, and there is likely to be something interesting on
their card to evoke some conversation. Maybe the area that they work in is interesting, or
their credentials, the name of their business, or their “tag line” is fun.
5. Find Something You Like About the Card - You might like the color,
the logo, the design or something and you can compliment or inquire about it. This is a
positive expression and helps to break down some of the walls that may have been put up
when they went to this meeting. People love compliments, this is positive energy, a great
place to start and will come right back atcha!
6. Ask Someone About Their All Time Biggest Business Success Story -
This is very positive and POWERFUL! This usually makes for a great story, may give you
some ideas for yourself and allows this person to be at ease around you - again making you
irresistible!
7. Prepare an Elevator Speech - Rehearse a thirty-second “gate
opener” about you and your business. Many networking or business functions have a
small window of opportunity to stand up and tell everyone in the room who you are and what
you do. Keep it simple. State your name, your company name, and what you do or what
you’re looking for (this again is very powerful).
8. Create a Company “Tag Line” - Create a tag line OR
“hook” like McDonald’s: “There’s a little McDonald’s in
everyone.” You can be creative here. The object is to have everyone remember your
business and your tag line, and link them both.
9. Find Someone to Help - A universal law is that if we help someone,
this immediately puts us in a position of receiving, OR “what goes around comes
around.” Keep your ears open for opportunities to link people together and help them.
Not only does this make you irresistible, it feels fantastic! When you feel fantastic, you
are more likely to magnetize opportunity!
10. Get to Know Someone - Book an appointment to get to know someone in
the room! Find a business or someone that you would like to get to know more about. Maybe
their business is interesting to you, or you may know someone else that might like to know
more about their business. I have found these meetings very useful for both parties. You
may discover some further hints and tips that you may want to incorporate in your own
business.
11. ENJOY! - Enjoy every moment of these networking functions! They can
be very powerful for business when you use the tools that you have. If you come from a
very curious place with each individual, not only are you more irresistible, you will
likely benefit greatly as well!
For a complimentary Business Coaching session, call Laurel von
Pander, L.S.I., LSC, President, Diamond Star Coaching Inc. at 1.877.443.7355, www.diamondstarcoaching.com
laurel@diamondstarcoaching.com |
