Networking Nugget 10 – The Business “Setting” (or Elevator Awareness)
The Business “Setting” (or Elevator Awareness)
Always be ready and able to pull out the answers to the following questions whenever you meet a new contact:
At a conference, meeting, convention, or a client call: What is your business pitch?
Do you have your networking toolkits at all times? Are you ready to hand out business cards and/or record information about new contacts or update previous contacts?
Remember, take the big step and approach someone new. Get out of your comfort zone. Networking is a leadership skill you’ll develop as you practice your communication skills. Be the leader and form your own group; serve on your local professional organization’s board; get involved with your community; mentor others as they move up in their careers; teach others in organizational courses or workshops; volunteer to make a speech on a subject pertinent to your group; write and publish articles; create your own website as a marketing tool.
Recognize that good relationships require nurturing, not “work.” Also, genuine results cannot be forced when you meet new people. They develop over time as you get to know and appreciate each other.
Andrea Nierenberg President of Nierenberg Consulting Group