The Personal Touch 1
There is a simple art to networking and the good news is, should you choose to put forth a conscience effort to improve the way you communicate, networking can and will become second nature to you, it is really just that simple. A personal touch big or small makes a big difference in how others perceive you professionally and personally as well.
I have a friend, Sharon and she seems to think that effective communication and networking is meeting people at a business mixer or dinner, giving them her business card, bragging on her title and then cornering the individuals she has met for the next 30 minutes with suggestions as to how they can assist her in growing and promoting her business.
Perhaps, you’ve run across a person like Sharon while networking at different events. I am sure you waited with much anticipation to be rescued from her. This feeling of discomfort in this situation actually keeps the individual from giving Sharon their full attention.
The problem here lies in Sharon thinking her business is the greatest thing in the world. Sharon should feel this way but she should also be considerate of others’ time. However, she usually neglects taking an interest in other peoples’ business and personal endeavors.
It’s great to be an interesting person but it is also important to be interested in other people. The balance when it comes to effective communication is critical. Keep in mind your new contacts will either come towards you or run away from you based on the last experience with you.
Remember, what makes a conversation great. Yes, you guessed it. It’s a two-way street.
By the way, “Everyone is important” is the Networking Factor!
By Janice Smallwood-McKenzie
URL www.101NetworkingCommandments.com
Ms. Smallwood-McKenzie is a Networking Coach in Los Angeles and she helps small businesses and professionals to expand their political, business, and social bases. She is the Author of