Five Ways to Make the Most of Networking Events
Networking opportunities are always available, yet many people don't attend
or don't like to attend because they don't receive much value from them.
However, if you change how you view them, they might bring more value to
you. Each networking event should be a business opportunity that is
evaluated and measured. Here are five ways to make the most of the
networking events you attend:
- Set specific standards around what you want to accomplish at each event,
such as obtaining 10 new contacts, passing out 100 of your business cards or
booking five follow up meetings with people.
- At exhibits, read information on the spot and then decide if it has
enough information in it to take it with you. If so, make sure to follow up
on it within 30 days.
- Before you leave the event, write down what you plan to do with each new
contact, how they will benefit from knowing you and how you will benefit
from knowing them. Write something down on the spot (perhaps even on the
back of their business card), so you won't forget later.
- After the networking event, think about if you achieved your goals. If
not, ask yourself why not and how you could do it differently next time.
- Also determine the value of this particular event. Make certain that you
put 100 percent effort into it in order to evaluate it fairly. Value to you
could mean a dollars generated, leads generated, contacts made, new business
booked, a lead for a new job, etc.
From www.lindatalley.com
