As stated previously word-of-mouth advertising as you know this is one of the oldest and most powerful forms of marketing for the value you receive back from the time invested. The previous suggestions in part 1 were: always have your networking tools with you, set a goal for the number of new people you want to meet at the events, act like a host not a guest at the events, and finally to listen then ask the 5 W questions. In part 2 I wrote about giving a lead or referral whenever you can, describe your product or service, exchange business cards with the people you meet at the events, and spend 10 minutes or less with each person you meet at the events, don’t linger with your friends and associates.
During the holiday season and special events you should make sure your follow the final suggestions to be an effective networker so future customers can learn about your business.
1. Write comments on the back on the business cards you collect. This process will help you remember the person later on when you look at the business card. I don’t know of a lot of people who can recall a 10 minute or less conversation of potentially 20 people a few days later when you need. A couple of examples of short notes:
“wants to attend a BNI chapter meeting”
“is a baseball fan”
“likes to hike”
Write down anything that will help you remember the conversation or that can help you do business with you.
2. Follow up with the people you meet. Remember that outstanding follow-up is the key to effective networking. You can follow the first nine suggestions to the t but if you don’t do this step you are wasting your time networking. If you promise to get back with people make sure you do it or your reputation can be hurt. Even if you don’t promise to call them do it anyway or send them a note or letter. If you follow-up your networking can be very empowering.
3. Keep a copy of this posted in a visible place so you can review before you go to any networking event or holiday party. Ok now you have a total of ten suggestions on how to network during the holidays or special events. Go get them!!
As always if you have any questions or comments please email me at rondazaragoza@gmail.com. I will try and reply to your question within 24-48 hours of receipt.
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Valuable post, Ronda. Let me give you a low-tech tip I find works well. Many business cards now are either glossy material that resists writing, are covered on both sides with text and pictures, or are darkly colored. This makes the addition of these valuable notes problematic. I simply pop a small 1-1/2"x2" sticky note.
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