My recurring rants about LinkedIn Losers often generate reader reaction and commentary – both positive and negative. So … here we go again!
Networking
Networking with ‘Uncommon Courtesy’
I used to refer to this concept as networking with ‘common courtesy’. But, just like ‘common sense’, this practice is anything but commonplace in the business world today. One of the fastest and smartest ways to make that best possible first impression when networking is both very simple and very easy. Just display ‘Uncommon Courtesy’ that clearly differentiates you from the pack of amateurs by:
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:
Look Here To Know Who I Am
One of the simplest tools in your Power Networking Tool Kit is the simple little Name Tag you wear at networking events. Everyone uses them, but few people do so strategically to add to a positive first impression and enhance the networking process. Really … I’m not making this up.
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 …
I Don’t Get it – Elevator Pitches
Some of my business friends hate the Elevator Pitch concept and refuse to do them. While I do like the concept, I don’t get the name.
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: