How to build a better contact base whilst remaining sober

Professional social gatherings (aka booze-swilling parties) are on the increase.  Some you’d sell your Grandmother to attend, others you’d rather stay at home pulling out teeth.  But you’re going, so you might as well make the most of it!

You’ve grabbed a drink, assessed the landscape and now you’re ready to plunge right in:

1. Be clear about why you are going

Let’s face it, networking is incredibly time consuming. So to make an event really worthwhile – what specifically will make it worth your precious time and energy?

2. Reduce your frog kissing

Do as much preparation as possible. Ask for the guest list in advance, see who you’d like to connect with – check them out online – can you contact them to arrange a brief meeting there?

3. Don’t listen to your mother

Talk to strangers. Set yourself a goal. I started with 3.

4. Body talk

There are only ever 6 groups of people in a room – look for the open groups and individuals.

5. Be a go-giver not a go-getter

Always be thinking how can I help this person?

6. Pretend it’s your party

If you act like the host, people who are agonised at networking events will appreciate it if you make the first move, introduce yourself and make them feel comfortable.  

7. Have an interesting and memorable introduction

Please don’t give your job title – explain what you do and the results that you create – you’re wanting a response along these lines, “Oh that sounds interesting, how do you do that?”

8. Have some answers prepared for the standard questions you’ll get asked

Think about what you want others to know about you. You have the choice to tell them what ever you want to when they ask what’s new, how’s business etc? What do you want to be remembered for?

9. Exit strategies

I’ve really enjoyed talking to you…Is there anybody here you’d particularly like to meet? I’ve enjoyed meeting you but feel I’ve hogged you for too long…

10. Follow up

Keep your promises, review your goals – how many strangers did you talk to? How are you going to keep in touch – twitter, coffee, other networking events? What you do before and after an event is almost more important than what you do during it.

Melissa Kidd | Coaching Creative’s

Attend Melissa’s ‘Manage Your Mingling’ Coaching Course in Bristol on 3rd February 2010

Additional content: Simon Lewis | Editor | Only Marketing Jobs

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