Showing posts with label Networking/Prospecting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Networking/Prospecting. Show all posts

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Become a better networker simply by...

Being well read. I know it sounds simple, but the more you have to talk about, the easier it is to network. From politics, sports, local and international news, and business, keeping up with current events, on a variety of topics, will allow you to find a common thread with almost anyone.

Tip...Take 30 minutes a day to peruse espn, bloomberg, cnn, and the ny times (or whatever your local paper may be). This is not optional. Make it a recurring task in your calendar, beginning today!

Friday, December 14, 2007

Don't forget to water

You network. You prospect. You meet new people. 6 months later.....no new business. What did you do wrong?

Did you follow up? How often? In what way? Did you ever consider how "they" would like you to follow up or did you simply stick to a plan that is supposed to work for everyone?

Don't bother networking if you're not going to take the necessary time to NURTURE the relationships. You cannot simply plant seeds and come back in 6 months and expect their to be tomatoes hanging from every vine. Did you water? How much? How often? Did you offer any special food that tomatoe vines love feasting on?

Growing up on Brooklyn, I don't know the first thing about planting. That's never stopped me from INVESTING the necessary time to BUILD RELATIONSHIPS. Are you commited to doing this?

**Be careful not to "over water".

Have a Great Weekend!!!

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Networking - Shut up!!!

Are you touching enough people? Are you touching the right people?

Many people have no idea how to network. They feel it's just meeting people, attending events, and handing out and collecting business cards. Not to mention, making sure the other person knows "everything" about their business.

Remember, its not about you. It's about them. So shut up and let them talk!!! When you first meet someone, pay attention to their story. Pay attention to what they do and how you can possibly help them.

People like to talk about themselves. People like people who show a sincere interest in them. Who ask open ended questions, and build rapport. There will be plenty of time to share your story, a story that will be a lot more intriguing if they like you first.