עברית

 

When Jspace and Chofshi B’Manhattan were planning their networking event, I thought to myself that this would be a good opportunity to do something different. As a life and business coach, I thought it would be fun to participate in a networking challenge.

 

It’s obvious that in order to succeed these days you have to participate in networking events, but how prepared are we really, before we are forced to jump in and start swimming with the sharks?

 

Before we all get to networking at the Jspace event, I would like to offer up some tips and tools that can help you get the most out of your time there:

 

Be prepared

• Bring plenty of business cards and be ready to distribute them

• Eat diner before the event, so you aren’t hungry. You don’t want to be distracted with thoughts of food!

• Practice explaining who you are and what is the most important value for you. Ask yourself honestly why do you think people should meet with you and why your services are relevant for other people.

 

Know your outcome

• It’s best to write down what you hope to gain from the event beforehand, so you can work towards meeting those goals.

• Write some notes on the back of business cards you receive to help you remember who they came from, but don't do it in front of the person, because in some cultures this would be considered disrespectful!

 

Be confident

• Remember that you are the messenger, and what you can do is different from anything anyone else can offer.

• Try not to focus on the question, “What will people think of me?”

Be polite

• Your meetings with people should be brief and focused—don't get stuck in one conversation and stay too long. Trust your instincts and stop conversations that don't take you anywhere.

• Don't get drunk—remember, you are working!

• After the event, go home and immediately add your new contacts to your list and plan to send follow-up messages.

• Offer to meet with your contacts soon to deepen the connection. Suggest at least three possible dates that they can choose from.

Remember

• Employing unusual methods will result in unusual outcomes... which can be a good thing!

 

 

Good luck, and see you there!