Common-sense Networking Checklist
1. Look good.
I cannot state strongly enough how important it is to be appropriately well-dressed for a networking event. But looking good is more than just wearing that sharp-looking blazer or those fancy new shoes. Be well-rested – take a nap ahead of time if need be – and make sure your hair is at its best. Don’t network with day-before-hair-appointment hair.
2. Want to be there.
If you’re having an off day, don’t go. It’s as simple as that. People can tell if you’re forcing that smile; it should be natural. Remember, everyone has a vested interest in being there. Going with a disinterested or distracted attitude will not give a good impression of your business. First impressions are everything, and people will judge your business by your attitude.
3. Bring enough business cards.
It’s vitally important that people remember you once they’re back in the office. Your shining personality will go a long way, but they won’t remember your email, website or phone number. A card with your company logo, colors and slogan is preferable, but a slip of paper with your name, email and number will do in a pinch, as long as you didn’t make them up in the car before the meeting. Clean, professional work is a must.
4. Be interested in others’ businesses.
If you’re not interested in what others are saying, you can hardly expect them to return the favour. It sounds like a no-brainer, but take the time to ask a few questions to get to know their operations a little better. If you’re new to networking, take some time ahead of the meeting to consider some questions, and before long it’ll be second nature.
5. Put your cell phone on silent.
This is important – if you cut someone off in mid-sentence to answer your phone, emergency or not, you will likely not do business with them in the future. Cell phone etiquette is important in any situation, but even more so here. Your every move is judged by your peers.
6. Get permission for future communications.
If you’ve got a mailing list, be sure to ask if you may add someone to that list. Not only is it rude to spam people’s inboxes, but increasingly, mailing list providers are penalizing those who abuse their lists.
7. Know your stuff!
Probably the most important point on this list – if you’re not sure about every detail of what you’re there to sell, learn it. They’re your products; if you don’t know them inside and out, how will others know that your company is as good as you say it is?
8. Have fun.
Loosen up a little – this isn’t the time for nitty-gritty negotiations. This is as much about making friends as it is about making business contacts.
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Thanks for the great networking reminders Chris! It’s amazing how many events I’ve attended and the person I am speaking to has either ‘forgotten’ or ‘just run out’ of their business cards!
I am facilitating the Burnaby Board of Trade Networking breakfasts and I’ve made sure that attendees are advised to bring a sufficient supply of business cards. Don’t leave home without ‘em! (even my grandmother has my business cards should anyone ask!
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The one point that you list that I think is one of the most important is #6 – Get Permission for future communications. I didn’t attend that networking event just to be stuck on someone’s mailing list selling me widgets that I don’t want in the first place. ALWAYS ask for permission – without permission you could be lumped in with all those ‘blocked’ emails in the junk mail filter or worse, you could be reported as a spam.
Thanks for your comment Cathy!
I very much appreciated the affirmation from a professional networker like yourself. I really enjoy reading the your contributions, wonderful materials.
Permission is indeed vitally important, I’ve made the mistake of assuming in the past only to receive a few angry emails. I deserved them, and have definitely learned my lesson!
All the best!
- Chris