Mmh, I caught your attention didn't I? If so, then I've half succeeded at getting you to read this important networking advice.
A) Are you often too quick to hand out your business card?
If so, you may be committing a cardinal networking NO-NO. Your business cards and brochures eventually end up at the bottom of the trash cans just like the tons of unsolicited direct mail that comes through your mail box every day.
B) Work It, make them earn your business card.
In the Far East countries like Japan, China and other parts of Asia, customer interaction is taken a lot more seriously and they take time to cultivate mindful relationships. Presentation and aesthetics play a prominent role in enhancing relationships so first impressions play a huge role. Always remember that a good personal rapport may carry much more weight than the temptation of pure profit.
In Finland, the sauna is a place widely used to relax with friends and family, and a place for physical and mental relaxation as well. Elsewhere, a round of golf, coffee, lunches and dinners provide us with opportunities for a more relaxed setting to nurture these relationships.
Once you've made a great impression then it's very likely that your prospect will ask for your business card or phone number which they will keep and save as a valuable contact. Now, you're well positioned to do business and the opportunities are wide open.
C) In Summary...
Resist that knee jerk urge to dish out your business card and take time to build that relationship, make a good impression and see your options open up & blossom. Don't just drop it, work it.
Happy Networking folks, go get 'em.
You're Invited to ABN's Evening of Networking
On September 27th 2013
at Tosca Blu @ the Waverly Hotel
Time; 6.30 - 9.30 PM
More details >>
Real Talk.
Eric Mwangi
ABN Worldwide
[email protected]
www.abnworldwide.com
