Do you hear the word networking and feel a sense of panic at the thought of having to introduce yourself to strangers? Would you rather floss than go to the cocktail party before the symphony? Many people feel the same about networking as they do about public speaking. You’re understandably nervous, but your future in business depends on becoming a ‘career partner’. Whether you’re a business owner, company representative, or job seeker, you need to be comfortable meeting new people and finding out what they’re all about. So put your worries aside and use these tips and tricks to help transition from that stage fright to your new title of networking professional. You can do it! (Remember, you are not alone.)
Walk into the room with the same confidence with which you walk into your favorite restaurant or store. Whether you know all the people there, or not a single soul, walk in like you own the place. Keep your head up, shoulders squared, and walk with purpose and balance. Tell yourself that everyone in the room is looking at you because they want to meet you. You’re the celebrity they came here to see; you are respected and admired. As time passes, this will be true. You will have the confidence that everyone else wishes they had and they will want to meet you to discover the secret.
Grab a name tag and don’t be shy about it. More people will approach you if they know your name. People who recognize you by face will approach you instead of avoiding you because they forgot your name. Write your name loud and proud, because remember: everyone wants to talk to you. Your name tag must be worn on the right so that it is easily visible to anyone who shakes your hand. This way, they can see your name when they make eye contact.
Approach any group of three or more (groups of two are more intimate and may seem like you are an intruder, groups of three or more are more welcoming) and extend your hand to the most interesting person, look them in the eye and introduce you. End your introduction by asking “and you are?” and be prepared to ask them one or all of the following icebreaker questions:
“Where are you from?”
“What brings you here?”
“Do you have a favorite vacation destination; I’ve been thinking about a trip and I’m looking for ideas?”
“Tell me about your hobbies…”
People love to talk about themselves and answer your questions. Be prepared, they will ask you questions too. Have your ‘elevator pitch’ prepared ahead of time. No one has time for a long drawn out story or explanation of what you do or who you are. You should choose a few sentences that quickly describe you. Think of your elevator pitch as an extension of your mission/vision statement (personal or professional). Humans are interested in immediate gratification, so make sure your presentation includes something that answers “what’s in it for me?” to the person you are talking to. For example, if you sell cosmetics, be sure to tell them that your cosmetic line can save them time and money and help them look years younger. They’ll be more intrigued by that sentence than they would be if you told them how rich you are because of the great line of cosmetics you sell to customers all over the world.
Don’t take too long. This is the basic theory of supply and demand. Make small talk, set the stage for a meaningful relationship, but then move on. The more people you talk to, the more opportunities you will have for yourself and your business. If you spend little time and leave them wanting more, you become more valuable. Continue these techniques while they are mixed in the room. Set a goal to meet X number of new people per event. This number must be a percentage of attendees and the keyword is NEW. Don’t spend the event just talking to people you already know. This is an opportunity to meet new people. It may be more comfortable to talk to your circle of friends, but comfort is not the key to success (unless you’re selling shoes or mattresses, but that’s a story for another day).
Last but not least, when you go to these types of events you should go alone (see why I saved this one for last?). Yeah, I said go solo, as in, all solo. If you go with someone else, your tendency is to stay together and talk to each other. Do you remember the previous instruction about not approaching groups of two? If you go to a networking event with another person, you just made yourself 50% less approachable. Going solo will force you out of your comfort zone and encourage others to chat with you. They will see that you arrived alone and will happily welcome you into their group. It also sends a very clear signal that you are confident and self-assured.
Now go find them! The more people you meet, the better chance you have of succeeding as a business owner, professional, or job seeker. Get started with your elevator pitch today, and then sign up for the next networking opportunity in your area. Practice makes better, so give yourself a break if the first time is a little awkward. don’t give up. With each opportunity you will gain more and more confidence until YOU are a professional networker!