Networking is the lifeline of being an entrepreneur. No network, no leads. No leads, no money. No money, no dreams becoming a reality. Entrepreneurship rises and falls on the health of business connections.
Part of growing your network is being aware of how you navigate each networking event. The age-old saying is still true today, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” It starts with knowing what to do and even what to avoid when it comes to networking.
Follow these seven do’s and don’ts to make your next networking event a valuable experience.
1. Do meet new people.
That’s what networking events are all about- finding people you don’t know yet who will add value to your future. Find intrinsic value in the people you meet and remember- it’s not about you.
2. Don’t talk about yourself non-stop.
Ask other people what they do. Listen. Actively listen. And then listen even more. Ask good questions. Take a genuine interest in what they’re saying. If they’re an entrepreneur like you, chances are that they’re not just sharing a random business idea; they’re sharing a dream rooted in the guts of who they are.
3. Do know why you’re at each networking event.
If you’re going to a networking event hoping to make a sale, turn around and leave. Nobody goes to a networking event hoping to buy something, so stop trying to make a sale. (Tweet this!) Networking events are about three elements: meeting new people, learning from each other, and building credibility. If you focus on those three, you will have a great time.
4. Do have your business cards with you.
If you’re going to a networking event, carry a short stack of business cards ready to deliver. Keep them in a card carrier or in a jacket pocket to avoid bending corners or worse still, the cards themselves in your pants pocket. Also, make sure your information is current and correct.
5. Don’t hand your cards out like free candy.
If you’re handing out free candy, people might start looking for your white panel van. Don’t be that guy (or girl) when it comes to business cards either. Get to know someone before shoving your card their way.
6. Don’t dress like a bum.
If your clothes are wrinkled and have a faint whiff about them, it will be an automatic red flag in the area of professionalism. This is more than basic hygiene; this is about looking your best. Dress to impress.
7. Do have your elevator speech ready.
It’s your 10-seconds, not-a-sales-pitch explanation of why you do what you do as an entrepreneur. It’s your dream- be confident. Practice it ahead of time. Use the bathroom mirror if that’s what it takes. It’s better to look silly in front of a mirror than a potential network connection.
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