Tag Archives: networking relationships

Why I Love ‘Or’ Networking Relationships

I willingly admit that many of my networking strategies and best practices dance to a different drummer. That’s why I love ‘or’ networking relationships. They’re opposite from and much better than ‘and’ relationships. Read More »

A Great Impression Every Time

(Back in May, I lead with ‘Why I Hate Networking … ‘. It didn’t take long for readers to figure out that I really only hate lame, ineffective and unfocused networking. And so should you. Now … let’s get back to simple strategies for maximizing your Networking ROI.)

How do you make a great impression on people every time? The answer is really simple and easy, yet the devil is in the details of execution. Read More »

I Don’t Get It – ‘And’ Networking Relationships

Regular readers may recall that I’m a veteran networking practitioner and often speak and write about the topic. However, I willingly admit that many of my strategies and best practices dance to a different drummer. Read More »

Networking Defined

A reader recently asked me to define ‘Networking’. So, here is one of my favorite ‘Phil’s Faves’ you would hear often in one of my Networking Strategies workshops:

‘Networking is simply the exchange of ideas, information or resources. It’s all about information. John Naisbitt first defined networking that way in ‘MegaTrends’ over 30 years ago. Read More »

Got Cards?

Regular readers know that I frequently engage in lively discussions with several LinkedIn groups. A recent posting asked about ideas for following up on business cards gathered at networking events. Some excerpts from my comments:

  • I only get cards from people I want to get to know better – people I think I can help or who might be able to help me.
  • Don’t give your card to anyone! Really! Wait for people to ask for one. If they don’t and you really want them to have one, ask if you can give them your card. A simple little difference, but it sends out a very clear – and positive – message.
  • I send an email to each person I want to get to know better, asking for a good time to follow up on our brief conversation started at the event, but I don’t send any marketing information unless that person asked for something.
  • Here’s a different twist on the typical tactic after a networking event of asking for an in-person follow up chat. Since I’ve already met the person and established a minimal ‘hi touch’ connection, I respect their time and mine by suggesting we begin a more detailed and convenient email or phone dialogue. As that conversation evolves, the need for and value in another in-person meeting becomes more obvious.

Happy Networking!

Network With A Comfortable Handshake

When you’re networking, begin making the very best first impression you can on the strangers you meet with a winning smile and good eye contact. Then, continue that positive image with a comfortable handshake.

  • As you introduce yourself, shake hands briefly and energetically. Firm but painless is the key. An energetic handshake suggests an energetic person. A wimpy handshake suggests … well, you get the picture.

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