A Young Professionals 7 Rules of Networking
Two nights ago I went to AZIMA’s event (Arizona Interactive Marketing Association), and learned a ton from the panel of guests including @jaybaer @careypena3tv @rarmendariz @phvegas @usairways. It was a great event and I met tons of new people, I also noticed a lot of networking dos and don’ts at the event and I wanted to share some things I have learned through trial and error:
- Words are fire: Don’t say anything you wouldn’t want the entire room to know about, word spreads quickly in this industry. (People tweet during events)
- You’re not a machine: Don’t try to meet the entire room. You will exhaust yourself. Meet 2 to 3 quality people and call it a night.
- Don’t pitch me: If you really want to “sell” your product or whatever you’ll need to do that later on into the social relationship (i.e. meeting for coffee or lunch).
- Follow up: whether it be LinkedIn, E-mail, Tweet or Facebook just make sure you acknowledge meeting that person.
- Brag a little: Make sure you have a little :30 second bio about yourself ready, don’t make it seem memorized or cheesy just be yourself. Trust me your first one will be a disaster but with practice it will get better.
- Stare at their nose: Eye contact is key. Make sure you are not staring off into space when you are talking to someone, it may seem like you are not interested. If you are uncomfortable gazing into the eyes of a stranger stare at their nose.
- Don’t cut people off: In the parking lot or driving there, that is. It could be your next big client or job opportunity.
Anyone have anything else to add?
-Mags
Thanks for these tips and for being a regular at AZIMA events! I think that the most important thing when networking is to remember that its NOT just about selling your product or service. Instead, focus on creating relationships and getting to know your community. Not only is it more fun that way, but it can be amazingly rewarding.
Great list Maggie! I’d also say: ALWAYS hand out a business card and ask for one in return. This will act as a reminder to do what you suggest in #4: Follow Up. Nothing is worse than knowing you met someone at a networking event but forgetting their full name or how to contact them.