You probably know what it feels like to go to a networking event…
Everyone comes prepared with business cards, fancy pitches and other things they can use to impress potential clients. They dash around the room in an attempt to talk to anyone and everyone about their business. Everyone else at the event is trying to do the exact same thing, and it usually ends up being a mess of business cards and pitches.
But does anyone really benefit from it???
Getting out to networking events takes time and effort, and you want to make the best of every event that go to. Here are some simple things you can do to make sure everyone in the room knows about your business before the night is up:
1. Business cards are OUT, Facebook is IN!
If you’ve ever lost a business card, you’re not alone…it’s easy to misplace business cards, to forget about them or to forget the people who gave them to you. You don’t want to be forgettable, and you need to remember that it takes multiple points of contact to build a relationship.
The next time someone asks for a business card, see if they’re willing to connect on Facebook instead. Why Facebook? Think about this: every time you post, it’s possible that they’ll see your content, see your face and REMEMBER who you are.
It’s possible that some people won’t want to connect on Facebook because they use it for family and close friends only…and that’s okay! You can have business cards ready for the people who don’t want to connect online, but don’t be afraid to see if your new contacts want to join you on Facebook.
2. Be prepared with your 60-second story
You’ve probably heard all kinds of uncreative pitches that are not memorable or special…and that’s BORING! You don’t want to be one of those people with a pointless pitch. And remember that you need your new contacts to remember YOU, not just your business. The best way to stay at the front of someone’s mind is to share a powerful story about who you are and why you do what you do.
It takes practice to get your story just right, so take some time to hash it out. Share it with people who know you to see how you can improve. And make sure that you’re always prepared to tell your story at networking events!
3. Make a powerful impression on everyone you meet
When you go to a networking event, your job is to make an impression on everyone you come in contact with. Think about this, would you rather quickly introduce yourself to a bunch of people without getting the chance to tell your story, or would you rather make a lasting impression on five or ten people who might become future clients or could generate referral business for you?
The most powerful tools you have are your story and your ability to connect with others on a deeper level. So don’t hold back! Be yourself, be real and don’t let fear stop you!!
You MUST build your network in order to find success in business…my FM Half-Day Workshop has helped thousands of entrepreneurs gain more connections and BOOM their businesses. Find out when I’m coming to your city here: FM Half-Day Workshop