Live Networking Workshop

Objectives -Purpose of networking -Planning for an event -How to work a room successfully -Following-up -Timings & ground rules

Planning your networking Do your research  Who will I know there?  What is my objective?  Who are the ideal people to connect with? Set yourself goals  Speak to 5 new people  Make 2 new useful contacts  Make introductions for colleagues  Use colleagues as networking buddies  Leave by 9pm

Prepare ‘Elevator’ speech -Who are you -Where do you work -What do you actually do -Why are you here Introduce yourself clearly, concisely and effectively in no longer than 30 seconds

Elevator Speech Include the key points: -Your name -Your business ‘I work for XX in the Employment department as a Solicitor which means….’ -Your area of business: ‘I am based…’ and ‘I cover…’ -Your offering – positive, proud and ambitious but not salesy! -Make your information relevant & state your aims! ‘I am here today because….’ -Don’t use jargon

Breaking in……..

Breaking in First Impressions -Handshake -Confident body language -Smile -Appearance -Remember names Breaking into a conversation -Use your buddy & make introductions -Look for open groups or people on their own -Use the bar or buffet! -Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself

Building rapport…

Building rapport -Ask relevant questions -Be careful of certain topics: sport/kids/politics -Actively listen -Find connections and common ground -Be interested, don’t try to be interesting -Show empathy -Tune in to their tone and stance

Good questions to ask  Why did you go into law/engineering/gardening?  What is the best thing that’s happened to you this week?  What are your big plans for this year?  Who do you credit for giving you a start in your career?  Have you ever had one of the those moments where you’ve said/done the wrong thing….

Following up…

Following up  At the event ask if you can get in touch to talk further  Be specific about timeframes  Make it light – ‘let’s have a coffee’  Swap business cards if appropriate  Ask if they are on LinkedIn  After the event, call when you said you would  Don’t just link in and do nothing else  Don’t leave endless voic s

Moving on…

Moving on  It’s OK to leave one person to go and talk to another  Be polite when you leave  Don’t pretend you need the loo/a drink if you don’t  Say: “It’s been great talking to you. If I don’t see you later, have a great evening!”  Don’t leave people on their own  Agree to introduce each other to other people in the room you know or move on together  If you have a buddy look for them to join you