Create a Network of Colleagues, Cronies, Clients and Friends

You’ve left stacks of work behind to attend a national convention. But taking notes from dawn to dusk isn’t enough to make it worth your while.Put down that pencil and start shaking hands, talking to people around you and networking.

What is Networking?

Networking is a reciprocal process in which you share ideas, leads, information, advice, brainstorming, laughter . . . and sometimes tickets to a ball game. It’s mutually beneficial and can enhance both our personal and professional lives.

The best networkers have savvy, common sense and common courtesy . Networking is not a work style, it’s a lifestyle. Some of the best networkers don’t even know they’re networking. They’re just out there sharing ideas, sharing themselves.

Who are the Power People?

The most powerful people aren’t necessarily those with the biggest titles but rather those with the biggest Rolodex^tm or contact management systems. Our power comes when we can pick up the phone and make things happen for other people. It’s now a combination of clout and Klout.

It’s important to plan ahead by practicing a seven to nine-second self-introduction, reading newspapers and visiting websites. When you discover that you have something in common with another person, it becomes a totally different conversation and connection.

Decide, “What am I going there for?” Plan your route. For ninety percent of conferences, you can buy the tapes and sit by yourself and listen. What’s the point of attending? To meet and connect with other like-minded people.

Even if you’re satisfied with your current position, nobody’s job is etched in stone. Having a network can be your safety net.

If you want to join a group’s conversation, stand on the periphery. When someone nods your way, move in and introduce yourself. But, don’t change the conversation to suit your agenda. IF you want to be memorable, when you see someone in the periphery, step back, reset the circle and include them.

More Timely Tips:

Do:

Initiate conversation with attendees on the event venue (location, food, entertainment), sponsor, workshops, trade booths, seminars or speakers.

Treat spouses with grace, interest and respect (yours and theirs).

Have a meeting plan, whether you are an exhibitor or an attendee.

Don’t:

Overindulge in liquor at meals, hospitality suites or after hours.

Presume the hospitality party is purely a social event.

Forget to follow up and follow through.

And you will connect, converse and create a network of colleagues, clients, co-workers and friends!

Every event is an opportunity to make contacts, make friends. Be sure to go to have a good time! And you will.