Networking
is a vital part of your business development strategy. Here are 3 networking myths that can
interfere with your ability to be effective:
1. No
one wants to talk to me
In
discussions with my clients, I discovered that they feel like they don’t know
anyone at networking events and no one wants to talk to them. So, if you feel the same way, you’re probably not the only one.
- If most people are thinking “no one wants to talk
to me,” be the one to take the first step and introduce yourself to
others.
- Rather than trying to break into an engaged group
of people, introduce yourself to someone standing alone.
- Set a target for meeting a certain number of new people – odds are, they will appreciate your outreach.
2. I
can just show up and “wing” it
If you are
unprepared, you may not communicate as effectively as you want to. Instead:
- Prepare a clear, concise message about yourself that
is relevant to the people at this particular event.
- Practice saying your introduction with a smile and
while making eye contact.
- Prepare a few questions to ask and topics to discuss that are relevant to the occasion.
3. My goal is to hand out as many business cards
as possible
I once was given
a business card by someone at a networking event while I was in the restroom
washing my hands. She walked in, smiled,
put it next to the sink (since my hands were wet) and left the room. You can guess what I did with it. Don’t make the same mistake.
- Only give cards to someone you’ve actually had a conversation with, who might be a good prospect or partner (where you can be of mutual benefit).
- If you don’t want to wait until someone asks for
your card, ask permission to give them your card and provide suggestions
for potential collaboration.
GILDA BONANNO helps you transform your communication and
leadership skills so you can have more confidence, influence and success. She
has worked with leading organizations, including GE, Travelers, Praxair, Assa
Abloy, Wells Fargo and Yale University, on four continents from Chicago to
Shanghai and Rio to Rome. She is a frequent sponsor of Westfair events.
Website: www.gildabonanno.com
Videos: www.youtube.com/user/GildaBonanno (more than 1 million views)
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gildabonanno/