Deb Carr ............................................................................................Networking to Build Profile.........
The Golden Rule for networking is “It’s not about me, it’s about YOU”.
I cringe thinking back when I first started to network and thought of myself as being someone who could really
‘work the room’. I was so busy telling everyone what I did without taking the time to first learn about the person I
had just met.
Go to every network event with the attitude of contributing to others. Ask questions about the other person, show an
interest, keep eye contact and please never look around the room for someone more interesting. Remember this; you
may think this person might not be a potential client for you; however you don’t know who they know and who they
might refer to you!
Not everyone is outgoing, some people are dreadfully shy and going to a networking event is like pulling teeth for
them. If you are shy, there are a number of ways to get chatting:
- Ring the organizers to see if someone can meet you and introduce you to other people
- Introduce yourself and then ask questions about the other person
- Make sure you are up to date with current affairs and news
- Network in your industry so you meet like-minded people
- Get out of your own way - seriously! Just do it
- Stand by yourself- someone will come to you
- Approach someone who is standing alone
- Spend more time listening
If you're in sales you will no doubt have an elevator pitch. This is your first impression to get across what you do and
how you help people in 30 seconds. I have given a formula below on crafting an elevator pitch and have used myself
to explain how I crafted my own elevator pitch.
Here is mine:
My name is Deb Carr. I help Small Business and Media Personalities build their profiles through social media, my
networks and media. I do this by teaching them social media, scanning for PR opportunities, radio interviews and
helping them create blogs. I’m looking to connect with anyone who needs to have the WOW factor online.
My name is ..............................................................................................................................................................................................
I’m ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................
Consider sharing your company name, your personal brand, role or specialty
I help .......................................................................................................................................................................................................
Who/what kind of clients do you like to work with?
To ............................................................................................................................................................................................................
State your value proposition: What value you create for people?
I do this by ..............................................................................................................................................................................................
What kinds of problems do you help solve for them and how?
I’m looking to meet .................................................................................................................................................................................
Specifically who would you like to connect with (optional depending on the circumstances?)
Remember:
- First impressions count! If you're at a professional networking session, look professional!
- A proper handshake can make or break your first impression. A handshake that's too limp or weak can show
as a sign of weakness or lack of self-confidence, whilst one that's too strong can convey aggressiveness. A
well-executed handshake is one that conveys self-confidence, trust and a genuine interest in the other party. - Always check you have ample business cards with you. It’s a good idea to write a note on a business card that
is given to you with important details to remember about the person you just met. - Be a good listener.
Deb Carr is the Director of Vox Presenters Speaker Bureau, Radio Host, Blogger and
runs a PR / Social Media agency. Deb specializes in PR and marketing for small
business and publicity for speakers. http://www.debcarrmgt.com |
http://www.voxpresenters.com | http://www.sydneychic.com