When Your Warm Market....Goes Cold!

Which one is going to help you make more money?

In our electronic networking...there's waaay too much talking and not enough listening! A true network is a group of people with whom you have developed a sense of trust...either professionally or personally.
Trust is developed through personal contact and interaction.

If your warm market has gone cold. It's time to pursue new resources.

An old standby......Business Networking. Yes, it's still alive. I know, you're already starting to feel uncomfortable; room full of people you don't know, self introductions, what to wear, do you go alone or take a friend..?

Let me help:

Call your Chamber of Commerce; there are meetings going on everywhere. Pick one.

DRESS: Men, a shirt, tie and dark slacks (jacket optional); Ladies, business attire. Slacks are acceptable. No open toe shoes/sandals. Think conservative. You will feel perfectly comfortable.

BRING A FRIEND: NO. You'll hang on to one another and leave saying, "what a waste of time, I didn't meet anyone."

MEETING OTHERS: Ok, its gut check time....walk right up to a group, say hello, and introduce yourself. Always extend your hand first. (Guarantee #1: They're as uncomfortable as you, and the people with them are friends they brought, and they'd love to speak to anyone!)

CONVERSATION: F.O.R.M. = Family, Occupation, Recreation, Money. You have 5 minutes to "chat" with your new fans. TIP: Always redirect the conversation to them. We all enjoy talking about ourselves. Don't do it! (Guarantee #2: When you leave they'll think you're a tremendous conversationalist!)

ELEVATOR SPEECH: Write a 10 second job description for yourself and memorize it!

MOVING ON: Now that the butterflies are gone. Learn to 'move along' gracefully. Not "I have to go to the restroom, "or, "I'll be right back." Try: "I've really enjoyed talking with you, thank you. I have to speak with someone across the room. Maybe we could talk at another time?" Offer a Bcard.

BUSINESS CARDS: If you are sitting at tables in a more formal meeting, it's proper to pass out a Bcard to your table-mates after asking permission to join them, and introducing yourself. They'll do the same. Keep the cards in front of you to remember names and businesses. Use one pocket for Your cards and one for Theirs. Make notes on each to jog your memory.

FOLLOW-UP: Afterwards always make a point to email your new "fans" with a short note that you enjoyed their company and look forward to another gathering, etc., etc.

You have just earned your way into several people's circle of trust. You know a little about them, they know a little about you. Now build on that relationship each week. You'll be amazed how easy it becomes and how many times you will network "financially"with your new "fans."

Good Luck,