If you are new to business networking and a bit anxious about attending your first meeting, then the following should help.
Remember, everybody in the room is there to meet each other to find new clients, new suppliers or even new staff.
Ensure that you have made sufficient plans before you attend as a lack of preparation can lead to poor results.
You may have to give an elevated pitch, normally around one minute. If you have not done one before then practice until it is perfect. Ask your partner or trusted friends to listen to your presentation for feedback. It’s always best to get problems out of the way so that on the day it goes down a storm.
Checklist:
- Make sure you are dressed accordingly.
- Ensure you have enough business cards.
- Some Network events provide a list of attendees beforehand, do your homework to see who you want to meet.
- Ensure you respect people’s space and do not stand too close to them.
- DO NOT SELL TO THEM – Get to know them first.
- People will be interested in what problem you solve not necessarily how you do it. Going into detail of how you solve issues can put people off.
- Avoid talking about subjects that can be quite emotive e.g. Politics.