Networking - back to basic - 20 tips

It takes 72 days to create a habit and 1 pandemic to erase it!!

In the previous 12 weeks, I've participated in a number of in-person activities, and whilst I have enjoyed them I need as ask you to

‘Stop trying so hard’

Simply engage in conversation, forget the venue and interact with each other – as humans.

Here are my top 20 tips so you will be visible, memorable and intriguing at your next network event….so much so others will be compelled to reach out to you

?

1. Business cards – stop whatever you are doing right now– put them in your bag, coats, pockets, wallets
2. Never ask someone what they do in the first 10 minutes (see further down as to why)
3. Forget QR scans, tap and go network card – they don’t work on every phone, they are ‘forcing’ a connection and the next day I don’t have a card to remember you and I’m unlikely to go ?searching for your details
4. Forget QR scan, tap and go network card – no its not duplicate – unless you are going to have ALL your contact details visible on the platform you direct me to.
5. Forget QR scan, tap and go network card – no its not duplicate – you're moving the dialogue from eye-to-eye to gazing down at a gadget - communication disaster.
6. Before you sign up to the networking event ask yourself ‘What outcome will make this a worthwhile investment of my time’
7. Be prepared – obtain a guest list before you arrive
8. Be even more prepared?- ask the organisers who from your target market will be there and if they can arrange an introduction.
9. Be even more prepared – connect with other attendees before you arrive and arrange a meeting point
10. Lose the elevated pitch – build intrigue with your name tag.
11. Dress appropriately – no I’m serious – I don’t remember attendees at networking events (unless it’s in the health industry) turning up in active wear, unshaven, or very casual clothes – unless its your brand.
12. Instead of asking what they do (if you've done your prep, you'll know), ask open-ended questions about their workplace or client results.
13. If you register and can’t attend an event -let the organiser event and ask to remove your name tag. Name tags represent your brand. ?
14. If you have asked the right questions you never need to ask what they do – the nametag and conversation will tell you. Instead say to them ‘ I’ve enjoyed the brief conversation and would be great to understand more. Who are you looking to meet for you and your network”
15. When someone tells me they already have a coach I ask them ‘What do you like about them?’ and ‘if you had a magic wand what’s 1 thing you wish they would do?’
16. Learn how to exit a conversation – introduce some else and excuse yourself is just one way – there are 4 other ways that work well.
17. Listen – it’s a conversation
18. Don't get drunk – I know it’s exciting to get back out there but please respect the venue, host and other guests plus your brand is busy at work
19. When you leave – find a quite space within 5 mins and write down your 10 action items for the next day. Do this simple task whilst everything is fresh.

And number 20...

Networking has changed a lot in the last 24 months. There are so many opportunities being created away from traditional industry events. Human 2 Human interaction is at its highest ROI I’ve seen in over 25 years networking. If you don’t like going to networking events – that’s fine don’t go. Instead grab a copy of ‘38 Ways to Make Networking Feel Less Like Work" offering 38 ideas to grow your network and referrals in a meaningful way. ?And have a whole lot of fun, even if you hate networking.

Before you go....

If you (or you know someone) who is looking for an inspiring, relatable keynote speaker for events in 2022-2024 - please let me know.

Did you know that I contribute 5% of my revenue to?Lungitude Foundation

Make everyday count

Gordon

2022 Global Power List 200 Big Voices in Leadership