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.
networking relationships
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.
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.
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.
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 … Read more
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.