Whether it’s a tweetup, meetup or niche group, there’s nothing quite like real life networking. Person-to-person interaction helps put a real face to an avatar and adds some humanity to an e-mail address.
I personally am a huge advocate of meetups and enjoy it as way of making new business connections. Though, I don’t claim to be an expert, I can offer up some tips I’ve learned along the way.
Always have your business card ready and in a convenient place
Trying to dig/find your business card for five minutes may ruin the flow of a good conversation.
Make sure you have business cards separated/organized
If you are at a function where you are exchanging a lot of business cards, make sure you have two designated piles; yours versus the ones you are receiving. You don’t want to give a new contact someone else’s business card…
Make sure your conversation is give and take
Sure, you want to tell someone what you are all about, but make sure you listen to what they have to say. Reciprocity my friend.
Personal space
If someone seems preoccupied while you are talking to them and they seem to want to move on, let them. Give them their space.
Don’t make an ass of yourself
Sure, having a drink or two is fine but getting hammered in front of potential business associates… not so much. Know when to say when.
What are your tips?
What are your tips? Please leave a comment and share.
Sarah Wallace is a research analyst, blogger and podcaster. To learn more about her, click on the tabs above.
Filed under: Social Media Quick Tips | Tagged: business cards, networking, social media, Social Media Quick Tips, tweetups | 3 Comments »
