The 12 Days of Networking: Schmoozing with Benefits

Here's another great little list I found and would like to share with you. It's from The Huffington Post Blog, and it chimes with many of my own convictions about what works in networking...  [read the whole thing here...]

1. Be discriminating. There are countless events to attend from Chamber business card exchanges to professional development workshops to tailgating at Friday night football. Pick and choose those that are most aligned with your business goals. Do a little background research on who will be at the event and make a point to introduce yourself to relevant business contacts or potential clients.

2. The event is secondary. Arrive before the event begins and stay after it ends. This is when the real opportunities occur. Same holds true for social events. Attending the more intimate patron party can be much more beneficial than the all-inclusive main event.

3. Begin conversations. Discuss topics of interest. How 'bout those Saints? What do you think of the new neighborhood restaurant? Take your cues from social media; talking only about yourself and your business can be boring. Get down to business once you have established a rapport.

[read more here...]