Too Polite Won’t Work – This is Business Networking
Following social rules for politeness does not get new business. While some of the rules for polite communication should be maintained, being open to changing those rules to suit the business situation will be more productive. Business manners must be more assertive than those used in social situations.
Waiting until someone asks about what the business does, rather than proudly talking about what products and services are offered, might be polite, but when attending a networking function, building a network of people with whom business relationships can be established is the goal.
When Networking:
- Be prepared with business cards, flyers, brochures etc.
- Have your name tag easy to read.
- Wear something with pockets to keep your cards handy.
- Smile!
- Know what makes a great client and clearly tell others.
- Act and talk confidently.
- Tell others what your business focus is.
- Speak about skills and successes.
- Share where the products or services are available.
- Ask for the type of business referrals most wanted.
- Use “I want…” messages.
- Move about the room.
- Do not chat with the people from your own company.
- Offer business cards and promotional material.
- Accept the promotional material offered by others.
- Ask people to pass on your name to others who they might know.
- Be prepared to talk about fees, prices and charges.
- Leave your fear of rejection at home.
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Everyone knows someone who knows someone who needs your services. Let a lot of people know what you have to offer and look for others who are offering what you want. Making connections is about creating a successful business.
Marilyn Barnicke Belleghem M.Ed. consults to families in buisiness on relationship issues from Burlington, ON Canada. www.mbcinc.ca
