As a marketer by trade, I have seen – no make that “experienced” the power of networking many times over. And although social media has and will continue to play an important role in our integrated marketing efforts, in my opinion, it will never take the place of face-to-face networking. Why is that? Simple. When you are engaging someone new via social media, be it Facebook, twitter, texting, etc. hard as you try, you are unable to convey your emotions, your facial expressions, your voice tone, your body language. In a face-to-face meeting, all these things work together to deliver your personal brand – helping to make you, well…unforgettable!
If you have been spending too much time behind your desk staring at your computer, now is the time to get out and meet some real people. But before you do, here are a few tips that will assure your success.
1. Remember your networking goal. If you are out to bring in a new client or land a new job, chances are you will return from the networking event sorely disappointed. A realistic networking goal is to meet and make one or two new friends. New clients and job offers rarely come your way without first having a relationship and this takes time.
2. The best way to share information about yourself is actually to ask other people about themselves. It’s true. When you ask a new acquaintance to share information about themselves and show a genuine interest in what they do, chances are they will reciprocate and ask you to talk about yourself too.
3. Be a good listener. This is key in engaging other people. When they begin talking, zero in on what they are saying and try to ask a follow-up question or comment on their response. Remember, the most important networking question you could ever ask someone is….”If I were to refer a prospective client (or customer) to you, how would you describe this person?” This will definitely get their attention and show your interest.
4. Don’t leave home without them….business cards that is. Make sure you have an ample supply and are ready to give your card to someone at the appropriate time. While you don’t want to scatter them across the room, like falling confetti at a celebration, you do want to make sure you have a clean, crisp business card that represents you well. In accepting a business card from another person, make sure you look at it, taking a few minutes to comment on it, before putting it in your pocket. If possible, jotting down a note or two on the card, will help you remember that person, once you return to the office.
5. And speaking of returning to the office…that is when the follow-up should take place. Take time to write a personal note or email. Maybe make a “friend” request on Facebook or follow that person on Twitter. Whatever you do, make sure you reach out and touch that person again to further your relationship. Follow-up is key to networking success. Without it, you merely become a collector of business cards.
While networking can and should include social media, to begin new relationships and strengthen current relationships, there is simply no substitute for connecting in person.
Rose Breuss, Director of Marketing
515-288-3279
McGowen Hurst Clark and Smith, P.C.
Certified Public Accountants and Business Advisors
***McGowen Hurst Clark & Smith, P.C. is the May 3rd After-Hours event sponsor. Come out to Saints Pub + Patio for some casual networking!***
