Take the Networking Oath

 

Love it or hate it, networking has become part of business reality. It helps you find jobs, recruit talent, win new customers/clients and find other people who share or support your big ideas. But, what makes some people more effective at networking than others? The most effective networkers organize themselves. They have a plan and they stick to it! If you’re struggling to make connections at networking events, take the following oath.

The Networking Oath – Say it out loud and with meaning . . .

On my honor, I will:

BE SELECTIVE:  Let’s face it; you could fill your entire week attending networking events. Pick and choose the events that best align with your goals rather than attending every group in your vicinity. Spend a little time and research different groups to narrow down your choices. And don’t be afraid to change things up! It might take some time to find your best fit. Mange your networking or it will manage you.

Try one of our FREE monthly networking groups:

• Park Place East Networking Group – held the first Thursday of every month at our Park OffiCenter location in St. Louis Park, MN. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INORMATION.
•  OffiCenter & VirtualOffiCenter Networking Group – held the second Wednesday of every month at our France Virtual Annex location in Bloomington, MN. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BE PREPARED:  Have your networking tools with you at all times; an ample supply of business cards, your name badge, and your unique and precise marketing messages. What sets you apart from the others? Being concise will demonstrate consideration and your expertise by conveying your most relevant points in as short a time as possible. On the other hand, a long rambling statement shows a lack of preparation, professionalism and experience. Get it done in 20 seconds or less . . . you’re a networking pro!

BE EARLY:  Remember that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Arriving early allows you to gather your thoughts so that your time spent networking will benefit you and your goals.

BE ORGANIZED:  Having a plan makes it easier to stay focused and achieve your desired outcome. Also, anticipating questions will help you have the answers on the tip of your tongue.

BE FREE:  Get rid of your briefcase, purse, coat or anything that stays in your hands.  Have an open body stance and hands free to SHAKE.  Don’t juggle food and printed materials.  No one wants to carry things with them.  Many expensive brochures end up lining the trash cans after a networking event.  If someone is interested, send or forward information.  It is a great reason to contact the person after the event.

BE GENEROUS: Both with your own knowledge and your connections. This kind of open-minded altruism will eventually be to your advantage.

BE YOURSELF:  Being genuine in your interactions builds trust in you and your brand. Be passionate and enthusiastic, but not emotional or subjective. And remember that you will sell yourself and your brand best by giving helpful information in a professional, entertaining and credible manner.

BE HAPPY:  It’s time for you to sparkle and shine. Leave your troubles at the door and put on a happy face! Be positive in your interactions. People have enough of their own troubles; they don’t want to hear about yours . . . Keep your emotional criticisms of others and personal hang-ups to yourself.

BE SOBER: Many networking events include “social hours” and/or are held in local bars and restaurants which can mean liquor and drinking. Keep to one or two drinks maximum for best impressions.

BE A LISTENER:  When someone is speaking, give them your full attention.  Listen and really HEAR what they are saying.  General rule, listen twice as much as you talk.

BE A TEACHER:  Networking is all about building relationships with others. This is your opportunity to teach people who you are and what you do. The immediate sale is not the goal in networking. Building trust and relationships will eventually get you your desired outcome.

BE PERSISTENT:  Follow up, follow up and follow up some more on connections, commitments and promises!  Keeping your word when it comes to following up builds credibility. If you promised to send something to someone after an event, make sure you do exactly that. Sadly, this is the most neglected part of networking and the most important. Following up with your new connections will make you raise above the rest.

Use these tips to become a networking pro and we hope to see you at one of our FREE OffiCenter/VirtualOffiCenter Networking Events.