This is taken from our radio/talkshow site 2minuteswith.com.  Check it out and give it a listen at the site.

Summary

What does NETWORKING really mean? Here’s how the clever “elevator speech” takes your business above the top floor. How to put “strategy” into developing contacts that will pay off with new client relationships.

Transcript

Renee: Networking really is important. It is a way of building relationships which ultimately are the source of sales and business. But how do you do it the right way?

Betsy: You identify trade organizations, or business organizations where you can attend events and get to know people.

Renee: What do you do when you go to an event?

Betsy: I always arrive early so I can attend the reception where people are open to conversations with new people.

Renee: Do you bring a lot of business cards?

Betsy: Many business cards, 50 or 75.

Renee: How do you know who is going to be there?

Betsy: One of my secrets is to charm the person at the sign in desk and ask to take a look at the gust list.

Renee: I often get stuck with somebody I don’t want to talk to, how do I get out of that?

Betsy: You can simply say, “Gee, its been great talking to you I need to meet my friend over there,” or “I’m sure you’re here to network with other folks too so thanks for your card, I look forward to seeing you again.”

Renee: See you later, right? So, I’m at an event, I’ve got my business cards, what do I say to people?

Betsy: You don’t want to approach someone and say, “I own a paint store and I want to sell this paint to you.” But you explain that you create healthy work environments by using color.

Renee: What do you do as follow-up?

Betsy: Put those individuals on your Christmas card list, your email list, and keep them apprised about business success.

Renee: You need to communicate with the person at least seven times in order to make a sale.

Betsy: That’s an advertising rule of thumb. Isn’t that right?

Renee: That’s right.