Networks created through the internet and social media are useful for an entrepreneur. Can you imagine promoting a start-up without a website? Moreover, what about Facebook? Wouldn’t you use LinkedIn or Twitter? However, even though it may seems a little bit old-fashioned, networking face to face still has its appeal; social media do not substitute for meeting people in person.
However, what is the best way to behave during a networking event? If you are one of those person who would rather prefer to spend a weekend with a dentist instead of participating in a networking event you should read it!
First, you arrive at a networking event, avoid gravitating to people you know, you are there to make new contacts, not to have a coffee with an old friend! After thanking the host, try to find someone new to introduce yourself to. This will help keep you in the right frame of mind as to why you came. Choose the person carefully: for instance, do not approach two people who are talking, as you may be interrupting an important discussion. Rather, initiate conversation with someone who is standing by himself or herself. They will be happy to have someone to talk to them!
Then, once you had the first contact, it is time to use your card; try to personalize it by writing your cell number on it. This will cause the recipient to feel that they are receiving something special. On the other hand, when you receive a business card, use the back to write a note about something you learned from the conversation and the date and place you met them. Recording the information will give you something to talk about the next time you see them.
Once the event is ended, remember this important word: Follow up! When you meet someone for the first time, you have around two days to follow up with him or her before they will completely forget about meeting you.