Networking Event Tip #31 - Spice It Up!

This tip that can add fun and energy to networking events and power up your own presence at events.

The idea is to be a person, or perhaps in your area THE person who comes up with ideas to make networking events more enjoyable.

Some business folk aren't enthusiastic about going to events because they think they'll see the same people at the same place eating the same tired appetizers. While of course the time anyone has is dependent on the person and his or her expectations and actions and energy, it's also possible to pump up the excitement.

Typical ways that recurring events add variety are by changing locations, caterers, exhibiting vendors, and maybe by having drawings. Those all work and depending on the people who show up they can be enough. If you're personally looking for more, however, maybe other people are, too.

I'm not suggesting you run your own networking events. You might do that, but will that really serve your business? However, you can contact the organizers of local events, after you've gotten to know them of course, and suggest some variety.

You don't have to go over the top with your networking spice because the primary focus is still people meeting and relating to people, but you could suggest ideas like:

• Speed networking - very fast, time-limited groupings of 3 or 4 people where people have 30-60 seconds each to introduce themselves. After a set time limit people have 1 minute to re-group. A strategy is for everyone to be given a number ahead of time so you can control how people group and re-group (you cannot count on people doing it themselves, they won't and it wastes time and ruins the effect)
• Elevator speech rating - Appoint three knowledgeable, well-known, funny judges to rate each attendee's 60-second commercial. Have prizes and perhaps crowns for the best - it also helps to have a handout on what makes a good elevator speech and how they're rated
• 6 Degrees of Separation Game - Ahead of time identify two or three people you would really like to meet for your business. Ideally these won't be people who are likely to be at the event or the game falls pretty flat. Each person gets, besides their own name tag, another name tag labeled: I'd Really Like to Meet [fill in the name] for each other person to whom they're seeking in introduction. They also get a supply of 1 and 2 point chips of some sort. The networking event run as usual, but while moving around the room other folks can see the I-Want-to-Meet nametags and when they make a connection with a promise to make a call or give contact info, they are given a 1 point chip for providing contact info and a 2 point chip for promising to make an introduction. At the end of the event, people collected the most points win prizes.
• A business hot seat can work in the right setting (can't be too noisy or too public) - where a person speaks to the whole group or a subset about a current business challenge or plan and gets suggestions and guidance.

There are other ways to spice up a networking event, but remember to keep it all appropriate. You'd probably raise the excitement level by emptying a box of live snakes on the floor but that won't help. Karaoke might be fun but the noise level would preclude regular conversation. Costumes are too much bother for a networking event so very few people will wear them.

If you keep the ideas simple to understand, easy to set up and run, and related to the primary purpose of business networking, that can help the event, help others, and help yourself. Win-win-win.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #30 - Power UP with Power Teams

This tip is most useful when you go to larger events, where there are at least 60-80 people or more. With smaller gatherings, even if you don't know too many people, the Power Team approach likely isn't necessary.

So here's the scenario: You're going to a big event and know that you can't possibly meet everyone, but that's OK, you already know that leaving with contact info for two or three great people to follow up with and get to know better is a win. However, there may be some folks that would have loved to meet you and vice versa but the sheer size of the crowd and the lack of time makes it impractical for everyone to really know who they might have missed out on.

The solution: Go in with a Power Team. A power team is a group of two or more people in related not non-competing businesses in the same field. For example, I'm a REALTOR(tm) so a power team for me might consist of a mortgage lender, a real estate attorney, a decorator, and a landscaper. I also do some business change coaching and am interested in marketing, so if I were to construct a power team for those two interests could consist of an accountant, a graphics designer, a promotional products rep, and a life coach.

Here's how it works: Agree ahead of time with another person or a small group (your power team) that:

1. For this event you will act as a team
2. You'll carry and when appropriate hand out each other's business cards
3. You'll get cards from people others on your team might want to know and pass them on

And that's really all it takes. The formation of a power team can be very loose and can be short term, but the core agreement is that you will actively be on the lookout for GREAT contacts for others on your team while at the same time doing your own thing.

Choosing your power team members: Keep in mind that people on your team will, in a small way, represent you, so you want power team members who:

1. Are good individual networkers (and all that entails)
2. Will stick to the plan (if you notice a team member in a corner totally focused on a hottie for more than 10 minutes make a mental note to choose someone else for the next big event)
3. You feel great about representing yourself. If you are fine receiving from but not too comfortable giving testimonials or referrals to someone, maybe they're not strong enough as a team member - remember if you refer someone and they turn out to be sub par, that reflects on you. If you consistently have a problem referring to others but are great at taking referrals - maybe it's time for a sharing check, because if you only take and don't give, you'll likely be off the team.

A Power Team may be a one-time effort or a frequently used networking tool. It only works well if members of the team are specifically aware of the strategy and each always has enough business cards for the other team members (you're both responsible for that).

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #29 - What's Your Signature?

OK, so you've heard of a signature drink in a bar, or a signature meal in a restaurant, signature arrangements by a high end florist, or maybe a signature gift box from a jeweler. Well you can also have personal signature elements when you show up at networking events.

What are the elements of an appropriate and effective signature piece? Consistency, noticeable, and appropriate, with emphasis on the last factor. For example, wearing red glasses frames would certainly be noticeable and easy to be consistent, but might not be appropriate for some professions where conservativeness is often expected - for example, a financial planner or accountant with red glasses might raise eyebrows.

For some a pocket handkerchief in a distinctive color or pattern could be a signature. Or always having and giving from a supply of distinctive pens. A dentist in a town we lived in collected older American convertibles and painted them in vivid colors - when he drove to parties and events everyone knew where he was. He was also a flamboyant dresser so it all seemed to work for him, where it might not have fora more staid dresser.

Just remember that a signature element works best when it's distinctive, when you use it consistently, and when it's appropriate with your business and your personality.



This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #28 - Brand Yourself (Tatoo Optional)

In your networking, just as in your business, it's a great idea to develop a powerful brand. Elements of your brand can include your business name, logo, slogan, mission statement and all the materials used in your business identity, advertising, and marketing, including your networking.

Anytime you or anyone else from your business represents the company in public, use your brand, promote your brand, and, this may sound silly to some, "be" your brand.

For example, if your company provides insurance products conveying your unique brand with a message of protection and security is important. A personal coaching company that focuses on making great strides in business could brand that image and use theme consistently.

There are almost no limits to the ways you can convey your brand at business networking events. Even a lapel pin (if you wear something with a lapel) can be a start, but handouts, business cards, goodie bag giveaways, and sponsored event displays all make strong statements. If your business brand captures the sense and possibly the emotion of your mission statement and you "talk the walk" your branding at networking events can be a trend-setter (can we hear it for "near legendary"?).


This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #27 - Look for an Ally

OK, so we're not talking about bowling here, we're not suggesting you look for an "alley" but an "ally", someone who will help you in your networking. This valuable strategic assistor can super-size your networking results.

Here's the way my friend Alfred Poor describes it:

"Think about using the term “ally”. People often feel isolated in business settings, in need of a supportive friend. A customer prospect is a quick fix, but it’s still a lonely connection as the polarization is in one direction. Instead, look for potential allies. They can be advisors, cheerleaders, and ambassadors who generate quality referrals. They become emotionally invested in your success, and want you to succeed. Note that these can even be competitors; at craft fairs, we find that other potters are some of the most supportive contacts that we make, sharing advice about other shows, offering ideas for products or display (and “stealing” ideas from us with our blessing). It’s a rising tide and all that. So I’d encourage you to have networkers look beyond just referrals and develop contacts who can become true allies. The good feeling will last a lot longer, and your business is likely to be stronger for it."

Like he said, you gotta have allies or at least you oughta to have the most fun, to have your own "team", get the most from networking, and then later, after you count the money, you can ALL go bowling.


This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.
If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #26 - Always Be Yourself (Consistently)

A key to successful business networking is to be the "real" you and to always bring that same person to networking events. Each of us can change, grow, and develop, so we don't have to remain in the same position or rut, but at the same time our individuality remains.

The second worst tactic you can use when going to networking events is to consistently play a role that's clearly not you. If in real life you're a fairly quiet, sensitive, thoughtful person but when you go to networking events you come on like a honky-tonk barker, you won't give other folks at the event a chance to see you at your best. If people who already know you in your "normal" self see you acting like a completely different person in public events, you could very well confuse and easily annoy them. For that reason alone you should be genuine, for the last thing you want to do is alienate your established relationships.

Another reason presenting a consistent "off" face is a bad idea is that it can be exhausting - if you have to work hard to maintain a posed persona, not only will it come across somehow odd, no matter how good an actor you are, it will also wear you out.

The very worst you can do at networking events, at least regarding how you present yourself, is to be wildly inconsistent. If you show up one month quiet and straight-laced, like a screaming head banger the next, and then follow up acting like a fully poised national stage level speaker, you'll throw people off to the point that they won't buy your "act" at all. Better to be a consistent poser than an inconsistent idiot.

So be real, bring your own self, have fun, and help people - that's all it really takes.



Networking Event Tip #26 - Always Be Yourself (Consistently)

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #25 - Look for Ways to Help

If you believe, as I do, that most of your business and all of your really good business comes from relationships, then this tip has special significance. Helping others purely for the sake of helping is a nice to do, a good to do and also a surefire way to help your own reputation and business. Even if you sell a commodity and have a lock on your market, boosting your service and finding ways to help others can make life more pleasant and rewarding and may repay you in ways you've never considered.

At networking events one easy way to help others is to make kind, appropriate introductions between people who attend the event. You can also help the organizers, hosts, and sponsors, but look for ways you can help people who attend. That doesn't mean you have to wait on people, but as you listen to what they say about their lives or their businesses, if you listen with an ear for ways you can assist them, you will discover that often without spending any money and little or no time or physical effort you can indeed render help.

A common suggestion for increasing business profitability is to increase your level of service. In the same vein, a great way to get more from your business networking is to find ways to take your level of service even higher.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #24 - Blog It! Part 2

Warning: This tip isn't for everyone. It's not even best for people who were cool with Tip #22 Blog It in Public! and decided to post about business networking events they attend. There is a danger in using this tip.

So consider yourself warned.

And maybe just go have a glass of milk and a cookie.

If you want to step up to another level in being a person who knows other people and gets introduced to people and who is known her or himself, consider writing a blog just about networking events. You could do what I'm doing with this series of blog posts about networking event tips (using your OWN content thank you very much, LOL) or find another way to approach the topic, but the idea is to put up a blog and consistently created and post content relevant to business networking in your area.

The great danger here comes from the concept of balance, and it's a double threat.

• First, if people begin to associate you with someone who writes about and knows about networking events, they may think that's somehow how your primary or only business - which can be maybe not that bad if you're a marketer or business consultant (maybe), but not great if you're a caterer, REALTOR(tm), landscaper, chiropractor, or boutique dress shop owner. So think about the business message you'll send.
• Second, running a blog takes time. It usually doesn't cost you anything but most people also don't put up blogs as profit centers, either, so you can spend a lot of time on something that not only doesn't make money (at least not directly), may dilute the message of your primary business or profession, AND can take away from your social, family, and personal time.

Remember that "b" word, "balance"? If you can blog about networking events and keep everything else in balance, that's great. I'm obviously a proponent, personally, but I'm not you with your interests and demands on your time. So think about this one before implementing.

If you do decide to put up a blog or website dedicated to business networking, please e-mail me the link, I'd love to see it. Or send me an e-mail with your idea if you wish and I'll be happy to give you feedback.

<
This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #23 - Be a Papparazzi Poster!

In Tip#19 I suggested you take photos at business networking events, in #20 I wrote about including them in blogs, and in #22 I encouraged you to use social media for info about events you attend. This tip goes one step further.

Assuming that you have some good images (by which I mean they are well-composed, focused and well-exposed and that they're complimentary to the subjects (don't ever put a nasty looking photo of someone online, it hurts them and hurts you, too), then post away online.

When I take photos at an event after I get back to my office I quickly go through the batch (I shoot a lot and usually only 20-30% are useable - in part I shoot fast so I won't bug people to which end I seldom ask people to pose or do more than just maybe look at the camera and smile). After I end up with one or a couple of dozen "keepers" I look at each on in a photo editor (usually Picasa.com) and crop, enhance lightly (usually increasing the contrast a bit) and often add just a bit of fill lighting. Then I'm ready. Another step that can add to convenience later and may help with search engine optimization is to change the usual numeric image number to a long name full of key words, but I typically don't spend that much time.

I post the photos on my blog in an entry about the blog, but I also typically will put them, or at least some of them, in a minimum of two other places. I create an album for the event in Facebook upload the photos and then tag in each photo as many people as I reasonably can - it's amazing how quickly so many people will find their photos in my albums on Facebook - also I've found that sometimes people find the event and tag themselves, or others will do it, which in my view is all good.

I also will use TwitPic to post the best photos - I have my TwitPic account setup to automatically post images to Twitter and to Facebook, so some of the photos show up twice on Facebook, but no one has complained yet.

Occasionally I'll also put the photos on local social media networking sites - often known as Ning sites, these sites can get a lot of local exposure and photos uploaded are always appreciated.

So shoot, publish, and post from networking events. It helps others, it's not too time-consuming, and it can surely help your business as well.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #22 - Use Social Media Before and After the Event

Do you use social media? Of course you do if you're in business today, even large corporations use it extensively so naturally as an entrepreneur, professional, or small retail or service business you find ways to maximize your marketing via social media.

Tweeting or updating your social media status about networking events benefits your attendance at business networking events in several ways:

• it provides some useful (if local) content for your Facebook page, Twitter stream or other social media, which might get you new followers
• by providing notice of and later coverage off business networking events you provide a benefit to the event itself, which will be appreciated by the organizers, hosts, and sponsors
• you get some borrowed glory from the event even if you don't do any of the work to put it on
• your overall marketing presence of someone who knows other people and who knows what's going on is enhanced

So it's a win/win/win.

Here's what to do:

1. Announce the event a few days ahead of time - with date, time, and place plus phone number for more info or to RSVP if required
2. Put out a reminder on the day of the event
3. Announce that you are going to attend the event on the day of the event (some time after #2 above) - offer your own contact info if people have questions
4. After the event mention the event, the people you met, and anything particularly cool that happened or you noticed.
5. Also immediately after the event you can announce when the next one will be.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #21 - Avoid Your Friends!

This tip might sound a bit odd, or contradictory to earlier tips in which we told you to go with someone else to business networking events, but the real deal here is that the primary purpose of networking events is NOT to hang out with your friends, but to make new contacts and build on existing relationships. That doesn't mean you won't perhaps become friends with people you meet at networking events, in fact the odds are in your favor that you will, but the wrong way to use your time at these events is to spend it with people who are already good friends.

If you spend your time in a corner with close friends, that may be fun, and safe, and all that, and yeah you'll be seen at the event, but it likely won't do anywhere as much good for your business as getting outside your social circle and meeting other people. In fact, if you seem to want to stick only to your friends, it can work against you.

So don't really ignore your friend at networking events. Say hi, maybe spend a few minutes, but then move on to see who else you can meet.

A twist on this that can work very much in your favor is to ask who ever your very best friends are in the room this question, "Who do you know here who would be the very best for me to meet for my business, and will you introduce me?" Then when they introduce you as their best friend or at least a really good friend, if they have good relationship with the other person, you'll get some of their borrowed trust, which is a great benefit.

It's great to have lots of friends, but they very likely won't be your only customers or clients, so spend most of your time with other people at networking events.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #20 - Blog It in Public!

This tip is a follow on to Tip #19 (Take Photos and Maybe Videos. Whether or not you take photos (or shoot short videos) at networking events, by all means blog about the events you attend. Depending how you blog, meaning not only how often you post to your blog, the tone and purpose of your blog, and the way your write, providing coverage of this type can be a great way to add value to the whole event for yourself and others.

One suggestion right off is to send a link to the blog post to the event organizers, hosts, sponsors, and anyone else who will give you their e-mail. Don't assume that just because you blog about an event people will find it - that's just not the way it works. But if you e-mail a link to the blog post within a day or two, you'll get a fairly high hit ratio by people who inform.

Most people only include one or two photos in a blog post and keep their posts short. I don't do it that way and will generally include all the decent images I capture at an event. Sometimes I'll write a great deal about the event and/or the people who were there and other times I just let the photos tell the story other than noting the date, place, name of the event and the organizers, hosts, and sponsors.

I try to keep my blogging light (at least I think it's light) and a bit humorous (again, in my opinion) and usually remember to thank the people who ran the event. If I know when and where the next event will be for the same group I'll often include that info, too.

Blogging about networking events isn't for everyone. If writing is a huge, time-consuming chore for you, I suggest you don't do it. You'll only get benefit from blogging about networking events if you can write the blog posts quickly.

I do try to include names and possibly business names of individual or small group shots in a blog post, but if I include shots of the crowd I don't get all compulsive about that. I don't always remember to do this but it's nice to have a shot or two of the place where the event was held - it's appreciated by the host(s) and sometimes can even get a link to your blog posted on the host business's blog or web site.

So blog on, networkers!

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know want to know about upcoming business networking events in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC], check out David Merrill's Networking Event Calendar . And if you know of or are planning a networking event you'd like included in the calendar, e-mail David at david.m.merrill@gmail.com

Networking Event Tip #19 - Take Photos, Maybe Videos

This tip is one that bears a bit of caution. One way to meet people, to be noticed yourself, and to have a lasting reminder of networking events and who attends them is to take photographs during the event. It's not uncommon of course for people to take photos of each other but it's a little less common for someone walking around shooting the whole event. I do it, and if it's not too noisy will sometimes record short headshot video clips as well, but I make a point of letting the host and organizers know I'm going to do it and that I'll also blog about the event (see tip #20).

The hosts are usually appreciative about my taking shots and it's not uncommon for them or others to ask for copies of the image files (this usually happens after the fact - I never offer to send image files to everyone involved, just that I'll send them a link to the blog post).

Guests who don't know me will often ask me why I'm taking photos, especially if I ask them to stop for a second to look at the camera. I'm a guy and women are the most cautious, but a quick explanation that I blog about networking events in our area generally sufffices.

The point of taking the shots is to capture a record of who was there. If you're also going to blog it's a great idea to take notes on a 3x5 card or the backs of business cards. Also, if someone asks me specifically not to photograph them, I always comply (who knows, could be witness protection program?). Usually people out marketing for their businesses at networking events are more than happy at any opportunity for notice and potential free "press", even on a private blo. I do make a point of not publishing photos that are uncomplimentary, though occasionally I'll hear that someone isn't happy with a photo I thought was just fine.

There are two more reasons I shoot photos at networking events. One, I ask people to smile and there's something chemical that happens automatically when people smile and you smile back at them (that's 'smile' guys, not 'leer'), so it's a friendly way to say hello. Two, photographing network events has become one of my signatures at events (see tip #29). Also, I do it so often that even when I go to an event for the first time where I don't even know anyone I feel so natural doing it others usually accept it without hesitation.

Often I'm not the only one shooting events and sometimes there's a professional working the event. I haven't had any problems with that because I don't sell my photos or make any effort to publish them in the regular press - plus I use a tiny digital camera while the pros use larger more capable cameras, so I don't pose a threat.

I encourage you to take a digital camera in your pocket and at least get a few shots of people you spend time talking with. Because I use SendOutCards in my marketing, I love to follow up with a card within a few days of an event with a photo of the event or even the person I'm mailing it to on the front of the card.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #18 - Lend a Hand (But Don't Be Pushy)

In most circumstances it's great to help out, pretty much anywhere you see the opportunity, not just at networking events.

If you help the organizers and hosts of an event, especially at the beginning, you might find you get introduced more enthusiastically and also get known as someone who's a helper and willing to pitch in. If when you introduce yourself to the hosts or organizers who add a simple, "If there's any way I can help today/tonight just let me know." that's possibly all it takes.

Sometimes the need for help is so obvious you won't even need to ask. For example if there's a line of people trying to get in and only one frazzled person at a registration desk, that's a perfect oppportunity to help. You could (after asking) take some extra name tags and pens down the line to speed things up or whatever works. In this case, just the works "Let me help" will likely suffice.

There are probably more opportunities to help at the end of an event than at the beginning. If the meeting space needs to be rearranged after the event (moving and folding chairs and tables, for example, or helping showcased vendors move their display materials out), that's a perfect time to help and to get to know others. As with Tip #6, however, don't use the fact that you folded a few chairs give you an excuse to keep the hosts or organizers long after the scheduled event ending time if they are clearly ready to leave.

The bottom line is that being a person who helps others is a great tip for life and can only serve you well at networking events.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #17 - Do Your Homework

There's certainly nothing wrong with just showing up at business networking events, but if you want to get the most from your time, plan ahead and do your homework.

Whether or not you've been at the meeting before, make an effort to find out who attends regularly if you can and for sure make note of the organizers, hosts, and sponsors. You can Google (tm) those companies or people the day of or at least the day before the event to learn just a little about each one and also to see if they're in the news for awards, business or ad campaigns, or anything else.

If you know that one or more people you definitely want to meet are likely to attend the event, burn those names in your forebrain so you'll remember to look for them - you can even ask the hosts when you arrive if so-and-so is there because you'd like to meet him/her/them.

If there's something special about the meeting venue (if it's at a park, or an historic building, or a place of any signifcance) make note of it as a minor factoid to pass on during a lull in conversation -- if appropriate, because of course you don't want to look like a dork and go into lecture mode when others just want to schmooze over wings and beer.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #16 - Etiquette Do's and Don'ts

The following are some quick behavioral guidelines:

- Do go along with the program - if they ask you to sign in, do it

- Do introduce yourself to the organizers, host(s), and showcased vendor(s) - if there are more than three vendors this is not as important

- Do thank the hosts and organizers when you leave

- Don't stand in front of the bar or the food table

- Don't insult people or bad mouth people, whether they're present or not - that type of behavior sticks to you in ways you won't like.

- Don't play practical jokes at others' expense - for example, shaking a soda or beer can before handing it to someone, particularly someone all dressed up

- Don't criticize the food

- Don't use this type of event to argue politics or religion

- Don't bring children (there are a few exceptions, but you're better off not doing it)

- Don't ask to take home food, drink, or goodies for people who "couldn't make it"

Event today (Monday August 17, 2009) - Wilmington Tweetup (Twitter users and people interested in using Twitter) at Chris's Cosmic Kitchen on Eastwood Drive, on the right, just east of Racine Drive heading toward Wrightsville Beach from Market Street. 5-7PM. See you there.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #15 -Are You a Connector?

Do people say to you, "You know everybody!"? If you hear that fairly often, it's a good thing. Now practically of course you don't know "everybody", but if you do actively work at knowing people, AND if you make a habit of recommending or introducing people, you'll quickly be recognized as a 'Connector'.

Connectors are valued because if someone else is trying to recommend a whatver (insert business specialty here) and can't think of someone they know and trust, if a Connector is nearby they'll make a secondary recommendation that the person check with the Connector, they might even make an introduction.

Why would you want to be considered a Connector? Well not only will helping people find others they need or seek be doing service to those people, which is itself a good thing, but you'll gain some points in the networking game from two, three, or possibly even more people when you make a great recommendation or introduction.

If for example, someone at an event brings a new acquaintance over to you to ask for a recommendation for, let's say a personal chef to cater a small party, you will help the "someone", his or her new acquaintance, and a chef you know and, less directly, you'll likely be noticed providing the recommendation by others in the room. So you help yourself by helping others, and all it takes is knowing people.

Important sidenote: if you make a recommendation for service, do be sure you're making a good recommendation. If you gush with praise about someone who eventually does a poor job, or worse, you lose. It's certainly OK, btw, to say something like, "Gee, I just met a guy last week who does that in your area. I haven't had any personal experience with him, but check him out." That way even if the goods or service provider doesn't pan out, you've helped the seeker.

It's not hard to become known as a Connector, but if you're not already one (you know it if you are) it takes a little time as you get in the habit of meeting and knowing enough about people to recommend them.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #14 - Don't Eat or Drink Too Much

Keep your primary purpose in mind. You attend business networking events to meet people, to refresh relationships, and to make an impression. It's called "marketing". Even though there is often great food and ample liquid refreshment, these events aren't the place you go for a meal or a lot of drinking.

It is, of course, polite to be appreciative to the event organizers, hosts, and sponsors for the food and, if it's not a cash bar, the libations as well, but your primary focus should be on meeting and talking with people. If you're consistently in the corner, in the middle of the room, or in the worst case, standing right in front of the food table, stuffing your face, don't expect to make a lot of new friends.

There are two exceptions to this general rule. If the focus of the sponsor is on a new or special food item, say Copper River Salmon in that short season in the northwest or champion class BBQ in the southeast, it's certainly appropriate and expected that you'll make a big deal over the food. Also, if you're meeting at a venue known for a special food or drink item, for example in a micro-brewery, focus on the local beer is also right (no one is forced to drink at these events, so if you don't drink don't worry about being pressured).

There is one practical reason not to get too hung up with eating and drinking at business networking events: if one hand is holding a drink and one hand is holding a plate of food and you're all standing, how do you practically manage to exchange business cards, shake hands, or even make a few notes on a 3x5 card or notepad? I find at most events I just ask for a bottle of water and even then I often lose it when I put it down to take photos or take notes.

Bottom line: if you're hungry or want to go drinking, save it for after the networking event.



This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #13 - Where Else Do I Go? (Be the Guy Who Knows!)

Here's one way to tell the difference between a social event and a business networking event. People at parties or social events are focused on having a great time then and there and maybe reciprocating if it's a party in someone's house. But folks who attend business networking events and know they benefit from them are always looking for other events to attend.

So be the guy (or gal) who knows. You don't have to be a walking event calendar, but if you do pretty much keep tabs on existing good networking opportunities and are one of the to hear about new venues or groups, you can do a good service for others by letting them know about events that you like or you think might be appropriate for your listener.

Now, of course, you don't want to run into an event and start hollering right off in front of the host and organizers about a really cool event across town or across the street (duh!). And it's not cool to compare events, particularly if you're going to put people or places down. That can play a little bit differently in the northern U.S., but for sure if you start dissing people and their events in the south you'll find yourself talking alone.

Remember that not every great opportunity for networking looks like a business networking event, so if you discover another good avenue, be sure to share that, too. For example, in the greater Wilmington, NC area there are lots of periodic (like monthly or sometimes weekly) concert in different parks or towns and some of them are super for networking before or even during the event. Also, there are some business shows and expos that can be good opportunities for people to people from other businesses.

So keep your mind open for other business networking opportunities and share the love with people who are interested.

This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.

If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.

Networking Event Tip #12 - Have a System (and work it!)

It is possible to go to a lot of business networking events, have a great time, get to know people, and yet leave a lot on the table. In other words, you show up and meet people and build relationships, but you don't really get the most from your time.

The way to maximize benefits from attending business networking events is to have a system. And maybe we should make that a SYSTEM, an widely used acronym that stands for Save Your Self Time Energy and Money.

So what would a SYSTEM look like for business networking, a series of events where you show up and be yourself, having a good time talking with and (hopefully mostly) listening to people?

The short cheap answer is you'll have to work out a SYSTEM for yourself, but here are some elements to consider.

• Already have a datebase or contact manager program in use on your computer. (We use the contact manager function in SendOutCards
• Be sure you get business cards and/or contact info from those people with whom you really want to follow up in the next few days.
• Either take notes immediately after or within a day at most about each person on your follow up list, focusing on how you can help them and what you'll do to follow up.
• Decide exactly how you'll follow up (e-mail, phone call, coffee meeting, office appointment, hand written note, greeting card). Once again, we use SendOutCards to send a personal greeting card the night of or day after an event. If this means a series of e-mails, cards, and calls, set it up to happen - enter the person in your calender or scheduling system.

And here's the biggie, the most important part of your SYSTEM - WORK IT! The greatest system in the world won't do you any good if you don't actually implement it.

• 
  This post is one in a series on how to make the most of in-person networking events. If you're going to go (and I suggest you do if your business benefits from relationships), you might as have the most fun possible and give and receive the greatest benefits from the occasion.
  
  
  If you know of a networking event in the greater Wilmington Area [which means to me anywhere from Topsail Island, NC to North Myrtle Beach, SC] that's open to visitors, drop me a note ahead of time and I'll try to post it.