Networking Checklist: “You only get one chance to make a good first impression.”
Give yourself a Competitive Advantage
Make yourself memorable. You can give yourself a competitive advantage by simply preparing for the networking meetings you will be attending. Preparation is the key to increased confidence and getting the results you want from your networking efforts.
Set your Marketing Goals and Budget
Include Networking in your marketing mix and set measurable goals. Determine your budget and select Networking events where you will have the opportunity to meet your target audience.
Networking Organizations – will they help you to achieve your business goals?
Select Networking Organizations where you will have the opportunity to meet your target audience. Some networking groups require you to become a member where you pay a monthly fee. Don’t join immediately. First attend meetings as a guest and ask members about their experiences. Questions to ask: (a) What type of people do they attract and what benefits do they receive? (b) Who are their guest speakers and what topics do they discuss? If this group will help you to make quality connections and meet your business goals, you can consider joining them.
Happy Networking and best wishes in meeting your goals!
How to prepare yourself for a Networking meeting
Define your own goals for a specific meeting. Don’t have unrealistic goals. It will take time to develop relationships and to meet your goals.
How many quality connections do you want to make that evening? My suggestion will be 5-8 connections.
During networking meetings we have to master small talk. Small talk in conversations allows us to find common ground – it will spark interest. Be prepared to talk about daily news or global issues. Read the newspaper that specific day – write down 3 things of importance that you can use to discuss with people in casual conversations.
Have your 1-minute introduction speech ready. Incorporate your benefits that you offer and make your message compelling.
Take your business cards and design your own name tag– I always use my own colorful name tag and it says “Hi I am Ursula”
Dress for success. Needless to say how important it is to always dress in a professional way. It will give you high credibility and people will respect you.
Leave early – On the way to the event be relaxed – listen to relaxed music in the car. Think positive thoughts – with a positive mindset, you will arrive peacefully and be ready to present yourself in a powerful way.
Ursula Kauth
Tel: 415.945 9411
Website: www.UrsulaKauth.com
Email: ursula@ursulakauth.com
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