Ever watched a real pro work a networking event?  It is breathtaking to behold. It is a gift but it can be learned.  Here are a few tips to help you level up to pro status in no time!

1. Say your name.  Put your hand out confidently, shake their hand and say “Michelle Archer”.  Not “I am” or “my name is”.  Just your name.  There is a confidence to it as is if you know your name speaks for itself.  Anyone with business acumen will respond with their name.  If not, prompt for it.

2. Let them do the talking.  You know who you are!  Find out something new. Ask “what is it that you do” or “what brought you here this evening”… “have you participated in this group often”?  People love to talk about themselves and every syllable they utter makes you more likable.  There will be time to talk about yourself later.  Be patient!  Look for common ground in their experiences and create a rapport.  People will be standing in line to talk to you!

3. Tell them a little about what you do.  Frame it along the lines of what they need.  After all, you have been listening to them for 30 minutes.  You should have a good idea of what they want more of in their lives.  Focus on what you can do for them.

4. Set a date to reconnect.  It could be coffee, a party or a phone call.  This should be easy to accomplish because you put the “work” in getting to know them.

5. Leave with appointments, not leads. Life is busy and technology is abundant.  You can spend weeks {or years} trying to set an appointment after the fact. They will never be more excited about what you have to offer than they are in this moment.  Close the deal!

Happy Networking!

~Michelle