Let’s face it, we meet a lot of new people at networking events and unless key people remember us and the value that we create then it can be a waste of time. So when we get to an event, what can we do to make sure we’re remembered?
* Be helpful. Networking is largely about helping others – always be thinking how can I help this person? It’s a simple truth: we do business with those that we know, like and trust. And you’re instantly more memorable to those you help.
* Attention is the most precious thing. We get it and keep it by being relevant. This means we need to tailor what we say according to whom we are talking to. So ask lots of questions, listen carefully and leave standard “elevator” pitches in the elevator.
* Be prepared. That said, people are going to ask you what do. Your first sentence needs to draw people in. We need to have a number of ways of describing how we add value. We want people to ask questions because they’re genuinely interested.
* Set out to be clear, not clever. The trouble with being an expert is that we forget what it’s like not to know stuff. Remember people are busy. People are lazy. They just don’t have the time or inclination to work stuff out.
* Problems. It’s a good idea to talk about the kinds of problems that we can solve. This is because problems are where people live. They are recognisable. And, if we can show through stories and examples how we solve them, we’ll be more referable.
* Be passionate. When we love what we do it shows. It’s memorable. But be careful – if we’re always the one doing the talking we might be having an impact that we didn’t intend. Remember: two ears one mouth – use them in that order!