Space Invaders. Be aware of other’s personal space. Drawing too close while conversing can make people uncomfortable and less open. Anything closer than 18 inches is too close and people will back away from you for more space.
Read. Listen. Stay Informed. To converse with others, one needs to be aware of issues and current events. Whether you read papers, listen to the local radio or watch the nightly news, be aware of happenings of importance nationally and locally. Set aside time each day to catch up on the latest. Armed with information you can make small talk and network with anyone. Being knowledgeable reinforces your image as someone who is informed, together and aware of the world.
Graceful Entrance. Make a habit of asking for permission to join a conversation already in progress. Simply say, “How do ya’ll know each other? or "This looks like trouble, I want in!” Adjust your request to fit your personality and style. People appreciate courtesy and enjoy welcoming someone respectful into a group.
Make an Entrance. You don't need a theme song or a spotlight, but when entering a room walk in and step to the right. Rather than barging straight in and to the bar or buffet. Pause a moment, take in a quick inventory of the room; lay out, who's there and what's going on. You will be noticed, especially by those who continuously maintain a watchful eye on the door. A simple and elegant entrance although not overly dramatic offers you a moment to enter into the moment and gather your thoughts. You appear to be calm, collected and confident. ready to mingle.
Be Sincere. Networking is an opportunity to create a relationship and your initial approach will determine the foundation for future interactions. Invest your most precious; YOU! Spend time over coffee, lunch or a drink after work. Simply give of your time and offer to help others to demonstrate your sincerity in developing relationships.
Seek To Help Others. Rather than looking for what others can do to help you, consider what you can do to help others. When you take yourself out of networking, you will reap a much more desired reward of people remembering you at the critical point of referring their friend or associate. Those who "do unto others" really are unforgettable.
Sit by Design, Not by Default. Our natural tendency is to sit with those we know. You will often find a table full of people from one company or organization, which defeats the intent to meet new people! You are not being hunted; so traveling in packs is not necessary for survival! Don’t make the same mistake, force yourself outside your comfort zone and always sit at table with people you don’t know. Make sure everyone on your team understands this rule.
Cling Ons. Where is Captain Kirk to beam you up? If you are out there starting conversations, you will inevitably become stuck in a dialogue from which there seems no escape. Some folks can talk endlessly and monopolize all your time if you allow them. A polite maneuver is to take the person to meet a new group and introduce them to the group. This expands the circle of conversations and enables you to engage in a new conversation or even excuse yourself.
Network Now. Eat Later. Network or eat, but not at the same time. Trying to juggle a drink, a plate, napkin and still shake hands is a tough balancing act. If you can find a table then join a group already seated and chatting. If sitting is not an option, stop by the food and grab a single snack. Eat. Then mingle with only a drink so you still have your right hand free to shake hands. Anytime you want a bite, return to the buffet and repeat this process. With every trip you can meet new people.
Seek out the Singles. This is not a dating advice column! If you see someone standing or sitting along, approach them and strike up a conversation. You never know what you may uncover by being proactive to meet new people. Many leaders and influential people are by nature introverted and enjoy being approached and welcomed into a group.
Body Language - BE OPEN: Before you even open your mouth or shake hands your body language tacitly speaks volumes. In fact communication is only 7% verbal and 93% body language, tone of voice, speed and facial expressions. Strive to exhibit open and welcoming signals. Point your heart towards those you with whom you are conversing. Uncrossed arms and legs, leaning forward, standing/sitting erect, good eye contact, smiling and generally a relaxed demeanor - all say "world I am open for business".
Come Prepared. ALWAYS have business cards and a working pen. Be able to concisely describe your organization, your role and how you help others.
