Today is Wednesday January 18, 2012

Thought For The Day

When eating a fruit, think of the person who planted the tree.
–Vietnamese saying

 

I Have Been Thinking

Even those of us that are not social butterflies can mingle productively at network meetings and gatherings. Rule number one, if possible never go alone. Rule two be creative and rule three be prepared.

When you go to any event with someone that already knows other people in the group, you will never meet a stranger. I believe this was the one reason that I loved party plan selling. Most of us are so drilled by the time we are five to “never talk to strangers” that it carries over to our adult life. It is very hard for some people to start a conversation anywhere. When you are formally introduced to others and find the common interest, continuing the conversation isn’t so impossible.

Be Creative

One thing you want to do before going to any event is to find out as much as you can about those that would be in attendance. Maybe you won’t be able to find out about individuals, but you will be able to know the demographics of those that will be there. Perhaps you can find out who the group leaders and presenters may be. Do some research on their business, topics and general interests. If they have been chosen to present or represent, then you will be able to identify and prepare for topics of discussion.

Get created with your promo materials. Personally, I like using business cards but I much rather use pens with my website URL imprinted on them. They are not expensive and never really get thrown away. Glossy fliers are expensive and often just find their way to the round file cabinet. Think about those things you have received that you do not part with quickly.

Beginning in about November, calendars are a great option. Hand out calendars with your logo and URL printed on them. Most people will have them around for the entire next year.

Be Memorable, Standing Out From The Crowd

I met one person who wore a red jacket every time he went to a meeting where he would be networking. Some insurance and real estate businesses implemented a uniform look so their business would be branded at any event where they were in fact represented.

Branding is just one of those elements that will in fact help people to remember you. It does not have to be obtrusive, but something that others may think about when they are looking for your type of product or service.

Be Prepared

Do your research ahead of time. If you were doing a presentation in front of a group of people, you would have everything you need at hand including even handouts, right? Every time you attend a networking event of any kind think of yourself as doing multiple mini presentations.

When talking to someone ask what they do. Listen attentively! More often than not, they will reciprocate and ask what you do. Do is an action word, it is not an adjective or adverb. It is not your job description. It is something you DO. Be prepared to tell people what you do, know it as well as you know your own name. Practice, practice, practice so that it is a very natural response.

 

Opportunity is never lost
It goes To Those Ready to Accept It!
Your Success is my Greatest Interest
CWinslow

Ice Breakers

Lion, Bear, and Pig

A lion, a bear, and a pig meet in the woods.

The bear says, “When I blare, the forest trembles!”

The lion answers, “When I roar, the jungle shudders!”

The pig boasts, “When I cough, the whole planet is scared to
death!”

 

Grandma Wisdom

Providing you have information that could benefit the person you are talking with, something that would help him in meeting other people introduce him to others. People will more remember your actions and thoughtfulness, than they will ever remember your name or company name.