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 »
I was reminded of a key point in the art of conversation a short time ago as I sat in a jury room. When you are conversing with someone, get to the point of what you have to say. Don’t be rude or impolite or disruptive of the conversation just for the sake of speed,
Don’t be like a soap opera–get to the point Read More »
This quote from the world of customer service works well in the universe of networking as well. Starting from a positive position is best. “Work backward from ‘yes’” comes from Chuck Greenberg, who, along with Nolan Ryan and a group of investors own the Texas Rangers Baseball Club. Recently, in a talk with customer service
Working Backward from “Yes” Read More »
Over lunch yesterday with a public relations colleague of mine, we talked about how we use or benefit from our networks. My friend told me he uses an informal “board of advisers” at a monthly or quarterly lunch. I think his recommendation of getting together with colleagues regularly is a great idea: bounce ideas off
The Informal Advisory Board Read More »
After a day doing jury duty, I realized I learned a lot from the experience. Going to court to serve on a jury of somebody’s peers (even if only was traffic court) drove home these points: Patience and persistence are required Listening is important Multitasking is a key skill to have Being patient when you
Lessons from Court Read More »
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