Netwalking is a comfortable and easy way to network, and it helps to connect into a community. Netwalking is not about selling or getting into heavy conversations. It’s a time to get to know people, find common ground, and have fun conversations about good things that are happening. It’s a chance to share ideas that can lead to better things. It’s an opportunity to sell yourself, which you need to do before you can begin to sell your knowledge and skills. Please come out and join us; think light, fun, and positive!
Netwalking essentials.
Be sure to have business cards handy in an accessible pocket. Also bring a pencil or pen, index cards for jotting notes or ideas, and maybe some breath mints. For certain events name tag is also a good idea (worn on the right if possible, so it's direct line of vision when shaking hands), or better yet, a shirt with your company logo or a message to which you might like to draw attention. And, don't forget a bottle or canteen of water, and comfortable walking shoes.
Greet everyone with a twinkle in your eye and a warm handshake. If an occasion is billed as a "networking" event, sidle right into a conversation, and introduce yourself! Attendees are there to meet new faces. When you are meeting someone for the first time, state your name slowly and clearly. When they tell you their name, repeat it back to them, to make sure you have it correct and to etch it more firmly into your memory. Repeat their name somewhere in your conversation.
Arrive prepared with questions and be an attentive listener? Networking is as much about gathering information as it is giving information. The more information you have at your disposal, the more effective you can be in helping others. Knowledge also helps you to become more effective in your own endeavors, as you are better able to relate in terms of shared values and better able to identify a person’s needs. Conduct your conversations as if “it’s all about them.” The more you know about them, the better you are able to provide them with referrals, assistance, and ideas.
An open-ended question elicits more information than a question answered by a yes or no. A "no" response can kill a conversation. A question that is open-ended and specific elicits conversation. Read Networking Beyond the Golden Rule.
So, what type of work do you do?
What do you like most about (your work)?... Anything else?... (see if you can pull out more information).
How did you decide to get into (that business)?... So just like that, you decided?... (see if there are any were any other deciding factors.
What do you find to be the greatest challenge in (the business)?
Is there anyone here I can introduce you to?
Any big plans for the upcoming holiday? Of course, any questions about local events and light social banter are always welcomed.
Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself and start a conversation.
When you initiate a face-to-face conversation with someone you don’t already know, you can set a warm tone while showcasing your confidence and intelligence. If you can help make someone who’s standing alone feel more comfortable, you’re both ahead of the game.
Ask to be introduced.
Don’t hesitate to ask for an introduction. The hosts or regular attendees are always willing to assist with introductions - perhaps a good business contact, someone with insight about a college you’re researching for your kid, or someone in a complementary profession, who targets the same markets and shares the same challenges. And, as mentioned earlier, offer an introduction when you can.
Be polite in terminating conversations.
At a busy event, you usually don’t want to get caught up in a conversation for more than ten minutes. If you are truly interested in learning more about a new acquaintance, you can ask for a business card and arrange for a one-on-one follow-up by phone or email. If you are not interested, you can end a conversation with a polite: “It was great getting to know you, enjoy the rest of the afternoon.”
Have a specific objective.
What’s on your mind and how can a new contact be a valuable resource? You may be looking for some specific information. You may be faced with a challenge for which you need some outside perspective. You may have a business objective in mind or perhaps a personal one. I’m always looking for insight and recommendations on networking groups, new holistic modalities, healthy foods, and fun athletic activities that can incorporate networking. As a parent, I’m also interested in learning about what’s working well in other school systems.
Have your "elevator pitch" handy.
An elevator pitch (it should really be a positioning statement) is something you should have well-rehearsed and ready at hand. It should be specific and clear. In thirty seconds, be able to state what you do, whom you can help, what you know, what makes you different, and what you’re after. When you’re prepared with this firmly in mind, you have a much better chance of making the right connections.
Be positive!
Look to meet with those who aren’t complaining about the economy, their work, or their health. Surround yourself with positive people and positive energy. It’s always great to connect with professionals that love what they do and want to meet others who are as passionate. This is much more productive and fun.
Follow up.
New networking contacts can be the start of long lasting relationships. Continue the communications with a handwritten card, an article, online social networking invitations, emails, phone conversations, or future appointments, as appropriate to the situation. If you made a promise to connect someone to someone else, be certain to provide further information promptly, and consider following up in a week.
Above all, have fun!
Make a game out of networking. Set goals and go after them. Perhaps, you’d like to make three new contacts at an event. Perhaps you are looking for a particular resource. Maybe you’re looking for a great book recommendation. I’ve often heard it said that networking is about farming, not hunting. The big payoff from networking doesn’t happen overnight. It does take time and work. You plant seeds, and you go back to water and nurture those seeds. Think positively, and you will find a bountiful harvest.
NETWALKRI
P.O. Box 2221
East Greenwich, RI 02818
401.884.1559
email: wendy@netwalkri.com