My Top 5 Tips for Effective Networking

Over the last year I have been relentlessly attending as many networking opportunities as I possibly can. In turn, I have not only grown my client base but I have also expanded my professional network exponentially. Whether it's stopping by a Network After Work event at a local bar in Royal Oak or Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce event at the Detroit Athletic Club, or even Automation Morning Mingle, I basically have most of metro Detroit covered.   Below are just a pointers I think will help anyone who is looking to get out there and network.

1. Dress to impress:  I am a strong believer of dressing up at events and I think since first impressions are everything that it's important to look your best especially if it is a potential client.  I noticed the flashier and more dressed up I was, the more people would come and talk to me as well as perceive me as someone in power. Try it and you will see. 

2. Shut up and Listen:  You have two ears and one mouth for a reason, and it its very important that you apply the 80/20 rule. You would be amazed to see how much information you can uncover about someone or there organization if you just be patient and let the other person get out whatever it is they want to say.  To many people out there are to focused on shoving the there elevator speech down someone's throat, and completely loose focus of the person they are even talking to.  Whether it's a product they are selling or a service they are offering.  It's not about you , it's about them.  I recommend a 15 second elevator speech, short and sweet.  Also, find that connection with someone, whether it's sports, politics or food.  This will really help break the ice. 

3. Be Curious: I always like to ask questions such as:

• Tell me about what you do and the company that you work for? Is your company on a growth path?
• What are some initiatives you are trying to reach this year or next?
• What do you enjoy most about working for your company or the career you are in?
• What other networking events do you attend in the area?
•  What are you trying to accomplish at an event like this?
• What would be your dream job?

4. A few quality conversations are better than many mediocre conversations : When I first started out networking, I wanted to basically talk to as many people as I could and get as many business cards as possible. And I would end up spending all night talking to all these people, and not remembering a single thing I talked to them about. However, I learned over time that it's important that you just enjoy yourself, be happy and be confident and that people will just gravitate to you. Be positive and don't let rejection deter you. 

5. Follow up:  People are very busy and it's important that you take the necessary steps to nurture the relationship and not to waste time.  Here are a few tips that help me. 

• Download Evernote - this is a great iOs and Android app to helhp you manage your business cards and contact information.  And you can directly import the data into your CRM or Outlook address book.  
• Connect on LinkedIN and Twitter - There are not many people I know that are not on LinkedIN and Twitter is a great way to get to know someone better especially if they are posting content.
• When you send a follow up email, make sure to highlight some of the things you discussed in the conversation and offer value. For example, I like to send other contacts I meet information on upcoming networking events to possibly help them expand there current network. 
• Set up a follow up appointment: Meet somewhere for coffee, or grab a lunch, check out a local Happy Hour. 

I hope this information helps you in your networking journey! Good luck :)