Easy to follow Network Business Marketing Tips for the "Terrified"

Sometimes for Business Marketing you need to Network

There are times when you just have to leave the office and circulate.

 If you are nervous about networking, here are some ways to improve your network business marketing skills and ensure a successful event.

Here are some powerful essential tips I have learnt; 

• Dress appropriately for the event. If you are unsure what to wear, contact the organisers first.  This will give you confidence to step forward and speak to others. Remember the first visual contact is the most important.
• Please smile warmly. An initial smile conveys the impression to others that you are a warm and friendly person to speak to.
• Give a firm positive handshake. This rule also applies to women. Your handshake projects your personality and confidence. It is the first physical information others receive about you at the early part of a relationship.
• Introduce yourself and try to get their name. I struggle with some names and find I often have to repeat their name a couple of times to get right. I do notice people don’t mind and seem to be impressed that you are trying to get their name right to start with. I have found the secret is to repeat their name as much as possible in the conversation so it comes naturally to me. Whatever you do, do not make fun of their name or where they are from. I have been amazed how often I have come across people joking about someone’s name and country.
• I know this is hard for some to do whether it is a cultural thing or just shyness but it is very important to make eye contact. If this is difficult for you to do think to yourself as you do it that you are here to build relationships.
• Business cards are great to hand out. When you receive their card, look at it respectfully and do not put in your back pocket. Place their card in your bag or side pocket. I write any details I need to recall later down on their cards if necessary.
• Please talk in a sincere, positive manner. A big turn off is someone who talks all “doom and gloom” or gossips about others.
• Part of finding out about someone is asking them about themselves and listening. So listen, really listen, so you can ask questions based on what they have said to show you are listening and understanding.
• Have a short 20 second speech organised that you can say about you and your business. This is much better and you will project self esteem.
• Remember you are there to meet other people as well so when there is a natural break in the conversation excuse yourself and move on.
• I learnt years ago it is a great idea to contact everyone I met with either an email or call the next day . This will help cement your new relationship. You never know where your contacts will lead.

The secret is to be prepared. First know what to wear, who will be attending, your 20 second speech about you, have business cards and most importantly wear a smile! Make your opportunities.

There is more to networking than drinking the alcohol and eating the food.

Get out there and Network.