subject: Are You Still Looking Out for Number One? [print this page] Are You Still Looking Out for Number One?
Going to a networking event this week? Have you planned your strategy yet? Think things through ahead of time to get the most out of the event.Have you ever attended a networking event with the intention to find connections for someone else? Most likely not because that's not what we're taught to do. We're taught that we should stuff our pockets with business cards, throw our shoulders back, put our game face on and let the hunt begin! If we're able to muster up any courage at all, we walk up to a likely looking stranger and start grilling him or her. What do you do, how long have you done it and gee I've got a great product (service) for you that will surely solve all your problems! Wrong on oh, so many fronts. More on networking etiquette and building relationships another time.If that's what it feels like to you, just think of how much pressure it would take off your shoulders if you went to a mixer or other networking event on someone else's behalf! Think of all the good karma you'll generate when look for possible connections for others. And that's one of the key tenets we promote when working with business owners: uplift and support other entrepreneurs. Help them be successful. Because by doing so, your connections and relationships will also be strengthened and you too will win in the long run.So for your next event, interview three potential candidates - say for your strategic partner or perhaps one of your clients, armed with the information you've gathered beforehand (what is their target market - gender? income? industry? etc.). Prescreen the referrals, get the contact information and if you're really good, go ahead and set up a date and time to make introductions (because we're always "going to keep in touch" and then life, work and time intervenes, and another opportunity lost!) Warmest introductions are personal introductions, so why not set up a 3-way breakfast or luncheon - or just a coffee break if you're pressed for time - and bring everyone to the table at the same time?Finally, once you've completed this task you're free to relax and be yourself. And who knows how that will turn out - your're much more approachable if you're not visibly stressed out - your next client might just walk up and find you! Reverse networking is easy and fun - you can make a game of it. You just might like it!
