Networking doesn’t have to be done at an event. Face-to-face interactions you have every day can be turned into networking opportunities.
Since the introduction of LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social media sites, face-to-face networking has become less popular over time. However, it is still important and very powerful.
Making a positive first impression in-person doesn’t have to happen at an event or networking conference. Networking can happen absolutely anywhere.
If you go the same place every day for lunch, go to your children’s ball games, or have any other places you frequent, you can turn these routines into networking opportunities.
I read somewhere recently that it is much more important to be interested in other people than it is to be interesting. Whether it is at the gym, on the golf course, or at your child’s school, it is never a bad time to show genuine interest in the people that you meet on a daily basis.
Meeting new people and asking them simple questions is a powerful networking tool. Perhaps they’re wearing a shirt with a logo or have something interesting on. Whatever the case, start a conversation.
If it is appropriate, you can then ask them what they do for business. At that point you can send them a LinkedIn request and become a resource to each other.
Networking is not about selling, it’s about serving.
How big would your pipeline be if you set a goal of meeting three new people each day? Putting these new people into your network could be incredibly powerful. Networking is not about selling, it’s about serving.
A good rule of thumb in life is to treat celebrities like regular people and treat regular people like celebrities. This will always get you far. People may not always remember what you say or do, but they remember how you make them feel.
Think about all the people you see in a day who you could impact by simply giving them a compliment. Even a smile or a conversation can go a long way. You don’t need to have your business card, you just need to get their information. After you do, follow up with them.
If you remain constantly interested in other people, you will always only be two minutes and two people away from your next referral.
If you would like a complimentary copy of my book “52 Ways to Boost Business with Your Business Card,” send me an email at LinkedInDiva@gmail.com and put “FreeBook” in your message.
If you have any other questions or would like more information, feel free to give me a call or send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Great advice... Good to get back to the basics!
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