EnTrends

Finding Networking Events such as clubs,
business associations, exhibitions or
conferences can be quite easy. But, what
do you do once you get there? What do
you say? How do you Act?

Networking Events tend to have four
different types of people in attendance.
Learn to spot these people and deal with
them accordingly.

The Newbie -- stands alone appearing to be
busy and avoids actually talking to
anyone. You should welcome and mentor
the newbie introducing them around.

The Amateur -- is an aggressive, annoying
"know-it-all" who follows people around
talking incessantly offering unwanted
advice. You should tactfully avoid the
amateur as hanging with him could ruin
your reputation.

The Pro -- wants something for nothing
and generally only calls when he need
something. He milks the life out of any
newbie in site. You should avoid contact
with the pro him and protect newbies from
him.

The Networker -- is a team player who
helps newbies, constantly pays attention
looking for new opportunities to exchange
ideas and experiences. You should work on
building quality mutually beneficial
relationships with other networkers.

At networking events learn to walk up to
just about anyone and engage in small talk.
At the same time be realistic about who
you approach. When you attend an event
featuring a high profile individual, target
others who are in attendance, or someone
who works directly with the speaker.

Use small talk to lead you into discussing
other things. Keep in mind that most
people's favorite subject is themselves.
Your comment about the weather or the
food can easily be followed by, "So, what
do you do?" People love to be thought of
as an "expert" and give advice to others,

use this to your advantage. Clearly
identify whom you are speaking with,
what he is interested and how your
relationship could be mutually beneficial.

GENERAL NETWORKING RULES

* Listen 80% and talk 20%

* Exchange business cards only when
appropriate

* Take pride in your appearance

* Dress appropriately

* Carry cards with you all times

* Volunteer your services

* Never make promises you cannot keep

* Be outgoing and conversational

* Find your common ground and build
upon it

* Remember and call people by name

* Follow up an invitation to lunch or
coffee

* Become known as an expert in your
industry

* Keep a database of contact information

TELEPHONE NETWORKING

* Be polite to secretaries and other
assistants and learn their names and a
little about them

* Tell the person who you are briefly,
state why you're calling and ask if it is a
good time to talk

* Don't call the same person all the time

OLINE NETWORKING EVENTS

* Keep content of messages on track and
focused

* Write simply and concisely

* Target a clearly defined group of
participants

* Keep messages brief

AT NETWORKING EVENTS

* Introduce yourself and offer a business
card

* Express an interest in the conversation.

* Keep initial comments limited

* Work your way in over a number of
events

* Welcome all newbies and introduce
around

* Watch your manners and language

* Keep drinking to a minimum

NETWORKING NO NO'S

* Collecting as many business cards as
possible

* Using people

* Being dishonest about your motives or
intentions

* Name dropping implying connections
you don't have

* Talking too much or too little

* Acting fake, obnoxious, or annoying

Networking is an ongoing activity. Create
good habits and frequently keep in touch
with the contacts you make, don't let
more than 60-90 days go by without some
sort of contact.

* Send holiday greeting cards with a
personal note

* Send a brief email, postcard or letter, if
you see an article or hear about
something that might interest them.

* Send thank-you and follow-up notes to
acknowledge anyone who has been
helpful to you or gave you a lead or
referral, whether it worked out or not.

Your ultimate goal should be to have
quality conversations that build long
lasting mutually beneficial relationships.
Take net-working seriously. Quality
networking connections will bring you
leads and open doors that may otherwise
not be available to you.

Virtual Technocrats LLC - Business &
Technology Consultants. Download our
FREE Business Planning eBook at

http://www.virtualtechnocrats.com

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