Business networking fits somewhere between a fun and enjoyable social event and a no-nonsense corporate board meeting. It encourages the formation of valuable partnerships and associations, and, it can also foster real friendships. Understanding the proper behavior and etiquette at a conference, trade show or other business networking opportunity can result in lasting and mutually beneficial relationships. Here are 10 tips for successful business networking.
1. Always be Prepared
Being prepared can avoid some embarrassing situations and also allow you to converse intelligently and naturally with other attendees at a given event. If you are going to an event where you are certain to run into some familiar faces, make sure you know their names and something about them or their company.
2. Don?t Be Overly Outgoing
You are not at a wild party and you should not behave like you are. While it is fine to be friendly and polite to everyone you may meet, don?t become the proverbial bull in a china shop. No one like someone who is loud and aggressive and goes around shaking everybody?s hand.
3. Do Not Try to Dominate the Conversation
It is always better to listen first and then respond. Monopolizing the conversation can turn people off and cause them to excuse themselves and head over to the punch bowl. By letting the other person talk about their interests, you can learn about what interests them and steer the conversation in that direction. Make them feel important and they will be much more likely to help you achieve your goals.
4. Give and you shall Receive
Whoever first said it is better to give than receive was a very wise person. When you can do something that helps another, your thoughtful gesture makes a strong impression. You would be amazed to see how often your selfless efforts return twice as much bak to you in similar acts of kindness.
5. Business Card Etiquette
Don?t be the person in the room that sticks a business card in the hand of every person that they meet. Most people will just toss those cards in the trash. Unless someone asks directly for your contact information, ask them for their business card first. That way, you can contact them at a time and date of your own choosing.
6. Keep your Pitch Short
Of course you want to relay the reason you are at the networking event and let the person or group you are talking to know how you can help. Keep your statement to about thirty seconds and then answer any questions as they come up in the ensuing conversation.
7. Participate in Multiple Networking Opportunities
Appearing more often at industry events will make you a familiar face to other regular attendees. It will also allow you to make more good connections.
8. Take Advantage of Technology
Use LinkedIn or other business-appropriate social media sites to invite people you met in person to contact you.
9. Show Interest
Even if you are not particularly interested in what the person you are talking to is saying, have respect and maintain eye contact. Don?t let anyone walk away feeling dis respected. You never know when they may have a friend that can help you.
10. Follow Up
Send an email or mail a note to new contacts to acknowledge them after the network event is over. Keep people thinking of you and they will be more willing to help you out in the future. Make them your friend.
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