Whether you are in business or pursuing artistic goals, there are plenty of opportunities to meet face-to-face. Networking opportunities abound. In meeting venues of any size, keep in mind the best practices that will help you succeed. Here is a list of helpful tips.
1. Wear a nametag that identifies both your name and, if applicable, your company.
2. Always have plenty of business cards. (Even if you don’t have a job, be certain to have business cards with your name and contact info.)
3. Every business gathering breaks into small groups that can be easily navigated. Be certain to visit every group.
4. Offer your hand and introduce yourself and the name of your company. (nine times out of ten) if your company is not a recognizable brand, you will be asked what you do.)
5. Be prepared to state succinctly in less than 30 seconds who you are and what you do. Make certain that how you describe what you do is clearly different from others who have the same occupation.
6. Hand out your business cards to each person in the group and collect as many as you can.
7. Spend no more than five minutes with each group. Leave as soon as you have either collected a card or have made introductions with everyone in the group.
8. Spend less than two minutes with a drone i.e., someone who is only skilled at hearing himself talk and is dismissive of everyone else in the group. There are two kinds of drones, one is completely boring and speaks in a monotone, the other is a drama queen, inherently narcissistic and although interesting to watch, will never do anything to benefit you.
9. Allow extra time for a person when there is a “connection,” some spark that indicates that you will have an ongoing professional relationship. This is the right circumstance to engage in conversation that is meaningful and memorable.
10. After the event, take ten minutes to Link-in, Facebook, Instagram (whatever social media you prefer)and update your professional database with your new connections!