As regular readers will recall, I advocate information-based networking. It’s all about sharing ideas, resources and connections with other people and seeking the same for you and your business.
Networking Strategies
Don’t Be a LinkedIn Loser
My recurring rants about LinkedIn Losers often generate reader reaction and commentary – both positive and negative. So … here we go again!
Elevate Your Elevator Speech
A business blogger recently asked for my input on Elevator Speech (ES) Best Practices. A few of my thoughts …
Stop Pitching in the Elevator
A reporter doing an article on Elevator Pitches recently asked for my brief input. First, I said that I preferred ‘Elevator Speech’ to ‘Elevator Pitch’. ‘Pitch’ sounds like you’re trying to sell something. No one likes to be sold to. ‘Speech’ sounds like you want to share some information. Even though the difference in connotation is subtle, it can impact the mindset of the person doing it.
Ask Good Questions
Because networking is all about sharing information and asking good questions, here are eight good questions to help you plan your networking events and engage in effective conversation.
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.
Worthy Networking Events
A reporter recently asked for my opinion on what kind of networking events are worth attending. Here’s a summary of my response:
Just Say ‘No’ to Small Talk
A reporter recently asked for suggestions on appropriate small talk at networking events. I surprised him by saying that small talk really didn’t work that well and to focus on Big Talk instead. The rest of my rant …
That’s Really a Dumb Question!
You know that old adage, ‘There’s no such thing as a dumb question’? Sorry to spoil your fantasy, but that’s wrong. There are plenty of dumb questions. Three of my faves are: