Don’t be a road runner: Here are 4 simple ways to make the most of speed networking
As an entrepreneur, you may have been part of a networking event at some point in your life. The key benefit of taking part in an event like this is to create new contacts that can potentially lead to more business. The unfortunate reality is that most people just shake hands, exchange quick hellos and business cards, and move on to the next. To make the most out of networking here are our top 4 tips to use. Make sure you use these tips at our networking event, the Science of Sales Success located at the Ontario Science Centre on October 30, 2014. Click here for details. Let’s break it down. Here are a few simple ways you can build a reliable referral base right now:
- Don’t be McJudgey – Targeting only specific individuals makes you lose sight of the bigger picture. Referral sources can come from almost anyone, so keep an open mind and make the most of the time (tip: don’t stay glued to your phone during the conversation)
- Ask the right questions – Think not only how they can help you, but how you can mutually benefit each other. Taking an interest in the other person will not only spark a better conversation, but make you more memorable when it comes to referrals.
- The pen is your friend – Don’t be afraid to jot down notes during the exercise. Making a quick note of your networker’s goals and interests. This will help you remember what you discussed further down the line (particularly if you had a few too many cocktails – another tip: avoid too many cocktails!)
- Don’t shake it and fake it – The relationship shouldn’t just end after that handshake – follow up to show you’re the real deal. Sending a quick ‘nice to meet you’ email to your new connections can go a long way. The purpose of networking isn’t just to collect business cards, so why end there?
Follow these simple tips as a guideline to get you started on building your referral base. Remember, just like perfecting an interview or presentation takes time, so does networking. The more you attend these events, the more you’ll become accustomed to what does or doesn’t work for you. Don’t be afraid to show your personality, jazz up your business cards or firm that handshake. No matter how you do it, the key here is to be memorable, show you’re interested, and follow up. Now that you’ve got the essentials covered, why not test your awesome skills at our upcoming event? The Science of Sales Success – October 30, 2014 at the Ontario Science Centre https://remic.ca/scienceofsales
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