Combining the Power of Face Book with Face Time

Our immersion in social media as a business tool and essential medium of communication continues to grow exponentially. Along with these valuable tools, face-to-face interaction at networking events and meetings remains an equally necessary component of success. The return on investment from personal contact remains significant and very much worth the effort.

“The Value of Meetings”, a recent white paper released by TBA Global, an international event-marketing agency, cited the positive effects that engagement, strong communication and recognition have on employees and their productivity. The paper contends that meetings such as networking events can help employees gain skills and knowledge through face-to-face interaction.

The following is a systematic approach to getting the most out of networking events.

Before the Event
Prior to the event, formulate a mental list of your goals.

• Are there specific contacts you’d like to make?
• Do you want to reinforce existing relationships?
• Do you need to focus on new potential customers or partners?

Staying focused on pre-determined goals will make it easier to manage your time. If you don’t already know, do some fact finding on the organization or on the people who will be there. Knowing what to expect and being knowledgeable about potential contacts will make it even easier for you.

Arrive early. This gives you time to meet people who share your goals for the event. At networking events, people expect to be approached by strangers, so introduce yourself to someone who is standing alone. Avoid spending too much time with people you already know–step out of your comfort zone.

You don’t need to “work the entire room.” If you can walk away from a room of strangers and feel like you have connected with 3 or 4 people, then call your networking a success.

Don’t Sell, Network!
Trying to sell to people the very first time you meet them will definitely send the wrong signals. Listen. Ask questions that require them to think of a response. Not only will this help you evaluate whether or not this person will be a good business contact, you’ll reinforce your image as a fabulous conversationalist! The more you ask, the more you can learn. Remember, it’s relationship building.

After the Event
Your networking exercise isn’t over after the event. While conversations are still fresh in your mind, write down important notes and make a point to contact new acquaintances within 24 hours. Send a simple email to acknowledge the meeting and open a dialogue on how your businesses might work together.

Make the most of your valuable face time. You’ll be glad you did.