When you go to a networking event or social event, are you going there with intention to meet someone, build a relationship, and potentially introduce them into your business? When you go to an event, don’t stand there like a dear caught in headlights. Go and introduce yourself. I know it can be intimidating when you are not use to doing so. The more you step out of your skin into who you are meant to be, it will be amazing the connections and referrals that you will actually have.
Tips for Intentional Networking:
Act as if everyone in the room is someone you know. I learned this from my friend, Christine Cashen. She said that her grandmother had taught her that whenever you walk into a room if already you already pretend that you are knowing everybody you will feel comfortable.It is easier to start introducing yourself to other people because soon enough you will know everyone in the room. That’s a fabulous tip!
Have your business cards with you so you can introduce yourself and be able to pass it on. Do not make that your first intent. Taking your business cards to and event is not like playing blackjack. It is not like seeing how many cards you can deal out. Give your card to people you connect with. These are people you feel have an alignment with or connect to.
Mark or make notes on the back of the card. Ask for permission to send out your e-zine. That is how relationships are formed.
The biggest thing is your Follow-up! Are you going to follow-up with a phone call or whether it be with your e-zine and connect with them to continue that relationship. Whether it be through email, phone call or in person, you want to continue to nurture the relationships around you.
Go with an intention. How many people do you want to meet? What type of people are you thinking of wanting to connect with? Perhaps when you are in conversation you can say this is what I am looking for and this is some of the people I am looking to connect with. Maybe they will know of someone and refer you. Maybe they will refer you to someone. You never know where your connect will be.
They say there are six degrees of separation. In this new world of connectors, I am finding it three, four, or even one spot difference. It’s amazing how small the world is when you connect with like-minded people.
Your influence will continue to grow!
Have a great day and Be Rich from the Inside Out!
Amen, Debra! Some really great tips here! Taking just a moment before you enter an event to determine what you want, who you’d like to meet and even how you want to FEEL at the event will make all the difference.