The Boy Scout slogan of “Be Prepared” couldn’t be more appropriate today. And it applies to networking more than we ever thought. Knowing who you are talking with and their background and business makes you memorable during your conversation. Let’s say you are going to meet a new contact for coffee. How do you prepare? […]
It is why we network: collaborating and connecting. At a recent trade show I had a conversation over a meal with two people in my network. Now, I see these guys for longer periods maybe twice a year. But when we do connect we spend hours together getting the exhibit assembled and show ready at
Collaborating and Connecting Read More »
A few quick facts to remember when using associations to build and navigate your network: Find Attend Serve First, find those professional associations that meet your needs and fit with your strategy. Plus, hanging with people you know and like is a healthy thing. Attend. You’ve joined, now be a part of the programs. Attend
Networking By Association Read More »
One of the most significant mistakes we make as networkers is to not follow up. In an effort to help cure this malaise, Relentless (with help from his colleague, Alice Dykeman), puts forth this list of six key steps in following up–so you will do it! The steps are otherwise known as the how, who,
The Six Steps of Following Up Read More »
Here is a short list of things we all do to sabotage our networking efforts: Lack of follow up Not listening No energy Not qualifying No planning Not having a basic presentation Poor communication Talking about features and not benefits Being afraid to talk to strangers Being a know-it-all That first one is the worst
Ten Common Networking Mistakes Read More »
It has been said that once words leave your mouth that they remain out there forever. Words can hurt of heal and they really can last for a long time, particularly in this new digital age. Consider this in these two instances: When you write When you speak Sure, this is simple. But today, things
Choosing your words carefully Read More »
The next time you are at an event, try this exercise: how many names can you remember of the people you’ve met? This serves two purposes: When you get home to log in your new-found contacts, you’ll be more apt to put in correct information. It also allows you to start the qualifying process of
A Powerful Tool: Your Memory Read More »
In a world where many people share the same first and last name but not family, it is important to have a clear identity. Consider using your middle initial. Now, I can’t take complete credit for this: this really came from Mike D. Merrill, a social media consultant in Dallas with a history with Dell.
Your Online Identity: Using Your Middle Initial Read More »
You can call it sportsmanship or you can call it fair play. Whatever you call it, it has to do with fair give and take between players. Whether it’s on the playing field or in the networking arena, play fair. Over the weekend I was reminded of this lesson. During a youth baseball tournament, one
Sportsmanship and Networking Read More »
These days we are caught up in social media and electronic communication. Yes, the are great tools for networking and marketing, but the basics never leave the process. Some things never change. As we tell our trade show clients: “if you do this right, you can sell on a bare piece of concrete.” Picture not
Networking Basics: the Two “P’s” and Two “C’s” Read More »
