Recently purchased the book ‘Networking That Really Works … So that You can Get Results’ by Andrea Nierenberg; and also read an article of hers’ summarizing her favorite ‘networking nuggets’.
I have been a networker in my job search coaching position for many years; from my first career after college (teaching) to working at high tech trade schools, and finally college student recruiting for Computer Sciences Corporation. Before that I worked at a manufacturing plant making technology instruments; all together a total of over 15 years as a ‘college recruiter’.
I was also an Admissions Representative and a Financial Aid Officer for a technology business school. So… I am good at the networking ‘game’, a really long time; between recruitment fairs, to explaining financial aid packages, and finding people across the country to fill technology jobs.
Before You Go:
Set a goal for the event. Be realistic and know that you must follow-up and take the action steps after the event.
Do your research.
Find out all you can about the event including any interesting facts about the location, its purpose, the organization sponsoring and people likely to attend.
Ask yourself, “what is my reason for attending this event and what is my networking potential”. Check the website to find out who the organizer is;
Set a goal to research 3-5 people you would ideally like to meet.
Also consider calling or emailing ahead to introduce yourself to those hosting or planning the event—you will differentiate yourself.
Set up some possible questions to later ask at the event:
What brought you here today? Hello, I don’t believe we have met yet, “I’m _____ from ____ and you are?” Have a list of “get to know you questions.”
Ask later : Are you a member? Tell me a bit about what you like.
What are some trends you are seeing in your business?
What other questions would you add? Develop a list of “idea generator topics (small talk).”
Your 9 second Challenge / 22 word introduction: Take the “9-Second Challenge” — Big Hint from Alysia:
Take the “9-Second Challenge” — Big Hint from Alysia:
Communicating Your Value: We speak 150 words per minute. (2.5 words per second X 9 Seconds = 22 words to attract the interest of another person)In Conversation – people say: ‘What do you do? You can respond with: ‘Thanks for asking” and then your “9- Second” response.
Example:
I coach business owners and executives to hire top talent and keep them motivated by creating a highly engaged culture.
Now write out your statement about yourself.
Practice your sound bite so that it flows.
Prepare your “tangible tool kit.” Keep these handy to help you meet and follow-up with ease.
Grooming essentials – simple and often overlooked.
Business cards – an adequate supply, in good condition, always have them with you.
Two card cases – take one for your cards and one for those you collect (keep in separate pockets).
A nice pen – an accessory for your image.
Notepad – to jot down things you learn immediately after speaking with someone that you will follow up with.
Note cards and stamps – be prepared with the note cards stamped and you can easily follow up immediately with a quick thank you note to those you connected with. – Big Hint from Alysia: If you can go back to their booth with the thank you note completed that is instant acknowledgment – something not may people do .
Next Part II about ‘At the Event’ and ‘After the Event’.