Networking events can be an excellent source for salespeople to meet potential prospects, expand their network and create prospecting alliances. On the flip side, they can also be a place where one can tarnish their reputation or their company’s brand.
Rule: You are only as strong as the network you carry
Below is a list of the Top 10 things to avoid when attending networking events.
1. Not planning or setting goals for the event: Leverage technology to see if you can get an idea of who is attending.
2. Talking about yourself too much: Remember it’s not about you, make it about the other person.
3. Having a limp noodle or bone-crushing handshake: You can tell a lot about someone based on their handshake, so stay somewhere in the middle or emulate the person you are shaking hands with.
4. Not customizing your pitch to fit the audience: Be unique and tailor your message based on that individual's role in the organization and by all means, be engaging.
5. Overindulging: I think most of us don’t need an explanation for that one.
6. Using industry-specific buzzwords: You run the risk of confusing people or making them uncomfortable with you because they have no earthly idea what you are talking about. Keep it simple.
7. Not being conscious of someone’s personal space: Making people comfortable while engaging in conversation is crucial to your success, so mind your space, or theirs.
8. Gravitating to your cell phone: I know it’s comforting, but it makes you look less approachable.
9. Not engaging people in conversation: Remember everyone is there for the same reason you are, to meet new people. Get out of your comfort zone and engage.
10. Not getting clear future commitments from those you meet: If the goal is to make new contacts and referral sources, get specific next steps before the end of the event
Remember these 10 Tips before your next event and as always, SELL STRONG.
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Principle MP Solutions- For 25 years Rob has been driven by the passion he has to grow people and organizations. Rob has worked with hundreds of companies and is a sought-after speaker on sales, sales management, social media, strategy and goal setting. He brings his 18 years of Sandler Training experience to MP Solutions.
