Marketing Tip of the Week: Masterful Networking

[Frank Gomez]

In case you haven't figured this out... Networking isn't:
barging in on a conversation and pushing your product, or interrupting someone to tell them about your exciting new business opportunity.

Networking is easy if you approach it with the right attitude.

There are some easy tips to feel confident and comfortable.

1) Take a deep breath before you go in and adjust your attitude. Say some affirmations like:
"I am confident and happy"
"I look forward to meeting someone new"
"I will listen and learn"
Again..."I am happy" (feel this so much that you smile as you walk into the room).

2) Remember that networking is about establishing new relationships and building on the ones you have, not about convincing people, selling them, pushing product, getting commitments.

3) Look for someone who isn't talking to anyone, say something like "Hi, I'm ____________, what is your name".
THEN Ask them about themselves, how they found out about the meeting, what they do, Keep asking questions and truly listen! Why? People love to be heard! You are building this relationship by showing interest and learning. Unless they are hardcore into signing up for the latest scheme they will start asking you questions too. A relationship has begun!

4) It is OK to talk to or say "hi" to people you know. This is building on the relationships you already have. Use their name. People love to hear their name.

5) Know someone well? Show it in your smile, touch them on the arm or shoulder, pat them on the back, hug them if you know them that well. This BUILDS the relationship you've already established.

6) Offer to help people if you can. "I know a great _________ person who can take care of that for you" and follow up. KEEP YOUR WORD no matter what! Look for opportunities for your contacts, it is a chance to get in touch with them and they will feel good that you are looking out for them.

Stuck talking to someone and you can't get away politely? Here are some suggestions...
Option 1) Look for a rescuer...Look for someone you know very nearby and say their name enthusiastically and rush towards them and give them a hug. The other person will likely find someone else's energy to suck.
Option 2) Tell them firmly that you are not interested, interrupt them if you have to.., (Use body language, Even hold your hand up like "STOP!"), and say "I'm not interested so you are wasting your time." They'll act offended but they don't deserve much respect if they are pushing you so much that you want to get away.
Option 3) Look at your watch and say "Oh my God, I didn't realize how late it is. I promised ______ I would meet them and walk to the other end of the room and find someone else to talk to or if it is time to go anyway leave.

Frank Gomez is a Graphic Designer specializing in small businesses and non-profits his website is www.FranksDesigns.com

[Nelly Camardo]

Hi Frank,
This is a great article, so true what you write, too many people are just pushing their product and not interested in you at all.

[Mauri Blefeld]

Well said Frank I totally agree !