Create a ‘Meet and Greet’ Mindset for Networking Success

To be successful at networking, you need to ensure you’re in the right mindset first.  There are a few simple steps that you can follow when attending events to harvest the rewards of networking.

An Attitude of Giving

You must have an attitude of giving first.  If you approach potential contacts at networking meetings with the clear intent of collecting business cards and simply adding to your list you will not establish the rapport and relationships necessary to succeed. We’ve all encountered ‘card collectors’ and can spot them a mile away.  They rush up, shake your hand, tell you what they do, and give you a business card. Even though they ask what you do, it’s obvious they are looking over your shoulder for their next victim while you’re talking.

Engage in Meaningful Conversation

It’s much better to go into a room and have a couple meaningful conversations than to shake a thousand hands and not remember a thing about anyone afterwards.  Draw more out of your new contacts by asking them open-ended questions that start with words like ‘How…?’

Focus on The Other Person

Take the spotlight off yourself.  Listen and ask questions that will help you get to know people on a much deeper level.  Give your elevator pitch when asked.   Everyone has something interesting about them and sometimes you may need to dig for that.  You’ll get into the offices of CEO’s that stellar sales people can’t- simply because you truly want to know the realities of their situation.  Take the time to get to know them as a person instead of looking for what you can get out of them or sell to them.

We do business with companies and people that we know, like, and trust.  It is your responsibility from the first impression on to demonstrate that you are worth knowing, liking, and trusting.  If you follow these few simple mindset steps, you’ll be on your way to networking success!  (And, always remember your business cards when you go).