Networking- Easy isn't it?

So networking, easy isn’t it?

You just turn up to a mixer or any event and it all comes naturally.. easy right?

So you don’t agree? Feel clueless at times? OK lets deal with this because you are in the majority.

Having read Dr Ivan Misner’s book “Masters of Networking “ again recently to prepare for a presentation the chapter listening and being heard offers the following standard techniques that will help you get your message across and provide a positive response.

1. Get the person’s attention. Show interest by asking questions: “How are you?” “Where are you from?” “What do you do?” “Have you heard about? . . .” “Did you know? . . .”

2. Add interest. Respond to the answer but don’t move the conversation to you; elicit more information from the other person.
3. Involve. Use the “feel, felt, found” formula (”I know how you feel, I felt the same way, and this is what I found”) to involve yourself in the other person’s message before you deliver your own.

4. Network. Tie it all together by connecting one person’s needs or goals with the resources, needs, or goals of another person. For example: “I felt the same way until I met John Jones. He really helped me accomplish my goals. Why don’t I have him give you a call? Is tomorrow evening convenient?”
The book goes on to say this is networking at its best. I have to agree and encourage you to think and plan your method for the next mixer or after 5 you attend.

Why not join me this coming Wednesday evening starting 6pm at the Blacktown Workers Club for the Blacktown Business Network and give some of this a go.

Happy Networking

Glenn