UPCOMING EVENTS

GUIDE TO NETWORKING

Do you love networking, or find it tedious and awkward?

Either way, networking is a sure-fire way to meet new people, make business contacts and find out what is going on in the market place. It can also help you to research your latest new idea. Networking has so many handy uses - you can gain confidence, meet a mentor, get free advice or meet someone in the same situation as you.

Think about what problem you want help with and target the networking events which most fit with the solution you need. So get out there and network and here's a few top tips to remember so you need never feel unprepared when you walk into a networking event.

Networking Etiquette

DRESS APPROPRIATELY

Dress appropriately for meeting new people. Remember, first impressions last.

BUSINESS CARD

Bring your business card, (it should be memorable, durable, and have up-to-date contact details) and ask for the other persons business card in return.

HAND SHAKE

Dont give a limp handshake and make eyecontact with the person you are talking to.

PEOPLE BUY PEOPLE

It's true 'people buy people' so keep a positive and friendly approach. Be helpful and available to those others who value you as a business contact.

ELEVATOR PITCH

Now is the time to practice your elevator pitch - be honest and and describe your business without rambling on. Show an interest in the other persons business too

LIST OF QUESTIONS

Have a list of questions ready - how about "What do you do?" and "What do you find challenging about that line of business?"

DONT HOG A PERSONS TIME

Don't hog a persons time and don't interrupt if they are with someone else.

KEEP THE MEETING SOCIAL

Keep the meeting social, don't be pushy about your business and what you want to sell or talk to the person about.

ALWAYS FOLLOW UP

Always follow up with those people you have promised to follow up with.