Lunch & Learn-August 18th, 2011
YPA LUNCH & LEARN: NETWORKING 101
August 18, 2011
Speakers: Terra Carroll, Tammy Shepherd, & Brian Tucker
First Impressions:
· 55% of people decide, upon first meeting you, whether they like you or not by how you are dressed, how you carry yourself, etc (before you even open your mouth).
· 38% of people decide whether they like you or not based on the tone of your voice when you first speak to them.
· Only 7% of people wait to hear what you actually have to say before deciding whether they like you or not.
At the event:
· Get to the event early! The power-people you may want to meet usually don’t stay long. And by getting there early you beat the rush & crowds.
· Make sure you wear a nametag (on the right side of your jacket/shirt/blouse preferably) to every function with both your name and company name on it.
· Get the registration list of attendees beforehand if possible so you can learn more about the people who will be attending.
· Icebreakers: Complement someone on their appearance, find something in common with them or introduce them to someone else who does.
· People gravitate towards those who have a passion for what they do.
· When you get business cards from others, rank them on the back with a number from 1-4
o 1: This person would be a great client
o 2: This person might be a good fit for my products or services
o 3: This person has a lot of connections but probably is not a potential client for me.
o 4: This person is just a great person to know!
Relationship Building:
· Don’t just distribute your business cards! They will end up in the trash unless you have made yourself memorable with someone.
· Be a sounding board (good listener) for people when that’s what they need from you. Ask someone if they would like your advice before giving it.
· Focus on the small groups/networks you are already involved with to expand your network.
· Introduce someone you just met to someone else who might need their products or services.
· Stay in touch with people you met! Send a follow-up note to them, make an introduction, congratulate them on a recent achievement, etc.
· Be honest and admit your mistakes when you goof up.
