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Power
Networking
It’s the little things that often get you rejected!
By Mark Given,CRS,ABR,GRI,SRES
as printed in realtytimes.com
In today’s fast paced world, you may only get one opportunity
to make that great first impression. In fact, according to
many first impression studies, you are being evaluated in
the first 3 seconds. If that doesn’t sound scary, it
should. Unfortunately for some, that impression is lasting
but not always impressive and sometimes just plain forgettable.
In fact, if you are not prepared, it may be the only opportunity
you get to begin developing a relationship that is rewarding
to both you and the recipient.
To clarify, I’ve listed some important and often ignored
items you should be aware of when you are networking. Many
of these thoughts have helped my clients open new doors. They
have assisted me in establishing friendships that have been
both personally and professionally beneficial and satisfying.
As my good friend Ed Hatch, CRS often says, “it’s
simplistic, but not always simple”. See if you don’t
agree.
1. Always be prepared before you attend a networking event.
Find out who else will attend and research something about
them so you can be interesting and appear informed. Create
in advance a plan of who you want to meet and what you’d
like to accomplish.
2. It’s always important to know how you can help other
people first. We’ve all met the person that is obviously
following the “what’s in it for me” mantra.
They are boring, and I try to find a way to avoid them. Help
others first, and they will often go out of their way to reciprocate.
3. Have a good quick introduction of yourself prepared that
invites a conversation. It should include your name, how you
fit into the event, and why the other person should care to
talk further with you(how you can help them).
4. Ask open ended questions and then listen. You will likely
discover a wealth of information about the person and their
needs if you will just be quiet. An old Japanese proverb states
“Listen with the intent to hear.”
5. According to a study at UCLA, 55% of communication is body
language, 38% is the tone and pitch of our voice and only
7% accounts for the words that we speak. Video tape yourself
in a conversation with a friend or family member(maybe your
dog) and observe your strengths.
6. Get someone that will be honest about the clothes you wear
and how you appear. Consider hiring a specialist to determine
your best colors and style. Be careful of your close friends.
Sometimes they just don’t want to hurt our feelings.
7. Having a bad hair day? Just don’t go. Yale University
says that the negative effects of a bad hair day are both
physical and psychological. And according to Yale, the effects
are worse for men!
8. If you are going to drink anything, carry it in your left
hand. Offering a cold clammy firm right hand should always
be avoided. And eat before you go. Most networking opportunities
come and go quickly and you may miss a golden one if you’re
munching or balancing a hors d'oeuvre plate.
Compliments of Mark Given Seminars, LLC
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