Nov
22
“Art of making the connection”
Filed Under Conferences
Pubcon 2006 was amazing. Brett Tabke of Webmaster World did a wonderful job making this a successful event. Since most of my time is spent making new friends and connecting with people I wanted to post about how to successfully attract the right people in your life, whether for business or other opportunities.
10 tips for successful networking at conferences and industry events:
- Master the art of small talk. Start by making eye contact, smiling and reaching out your hand to introduce yourself.
- Bring plenty of business cards and make them personal by writing a note about something you discussed with someone on the back of the card. It could be a book, a movie or restaurant that you recommended.
- Be a “people connector” by introducing people to one another. Be known as the person who knows everyone.
- Use questions to break the ice. “What an interesting conference. Tell me about the sessions you attended.” What do you enjoy most about this industry?”
- Become a good listener. Listen attentively and keep eye contact. The more you are interested in someone the more they find you interesting.
- Pay a compliment to someone. It could be about their behavior, appearance or profession. However, try not to be too personal.
- If you are waiting to speak to someone. Stand a little outside the circle and listen in. If an opportunity arises where you can comment do so, or politely tell the person that you would like to speak to him or her before the event is over.
- Don’t forget to have fun. The more you have fun the more your energy you will have.
- Each night write down who you met, a brief description of your conversation, how you can help him or her and how they can help you.
- Follow up and keep in touch. Make the phone call, send a letter or email. The more your network of friends grow the more opportunities arise.
See you at Search Engine Strategies in Chicago!
Best,
Bernard