If networking was easy, everyone would do it. But it’s not…especially for us introverts. In addition to products (books), I also provide a number of services. Therefore, in more ways than one, I can make money.
However, in order to do that, I have to network! It’s essential. There’s no getting around it. Over time, I’ve learned that the more prepared you are, the less intimidating it is. Believe it or not, networking can actually be…fun.
Note: networking can happen anywhere and at anytime.
Seriously. A few weeks ago, I helped a woman carry boxes inside of UPS. Small talk led to us exchanging business cards. I emailed her to follow-up and she shared who her employer was, that they could be benefit from my services, and that she would send my information along. Had I not been prepared, I would’ve missed out.
Now, picture yourself walking into a conference or room full of business-oriented individuals. Everyone is clean, cut, and ready to connect. Are you ready? If you don’t (at least) have these four things, then you are most definitely NOT ready:
1. A present face
Everything needs to be on alert in networking environments: eyes, ears, mouth, and yes, even your nose. Eyes: Look around at who’s who. If there are vendors, check them out. Does anyone look like your ideal client? Take note of all of these things. Ears: Listen to the person in front of you, yes, but also to the conversations going around the room. What’s their industry? Who do they serve? Has anyone voiced their company’s needs? Mouth: Speak. Share who you are, what you do, and who you serve. Smile while you’re doing it. Nose: If it smells like BS, it more than likely is. Know when to smile, nod, and keep it moving.
2. A green aura
The green aura embodies: harmony, love, communication, sociability, and acceptance. You should be illuminating all of these qualities before even walking through the door. You can’t fake the funk. We can smell it on you. So pray, meditate, exercise, have a quicky, eat a cupcake, or do whatever it is that you need to do to get right (or should I say, “get green”). Green attracts green.
3. A grip on your stuff
Know your stuff. Know how to communicate it. Why does it matter? Who will it benefit? Why are you better than your competition? What’s the background? What’s the now? What’s the future? Who are your clients? Practice in the mirror if you have to. And don’t sound so robotic. It should flow naturally. Your business is yours. Know how to explain it in thirty seconds, in five minutes, and in an hour without boring us to death.
4. A business card
It’s a must-have. Don’t leave home without it. Ever. At minimum, your card should include your name, e-mail address, phone number, and website.
Now, quit making networking harder than it gotta be. It ain’t nothing but a room full of people (or another person) that is just like you, trying to make a few dollars. Bring your present face, green aura, grip on your stuff, and business cards and you’ll be good to go 