I have been doing a fair amount of face to face marketing now that my goal is to grow my virtual assistant business for 2009.  I have always been a “people person” but not so much a networker, or so I thought.  A friend and business educator gave me some great advice on how to make the most out of every face to face meeting.

Be On Time – I have always been a stickler for not only being on time but arriving a little early.  I learned this from the time I was young that a person’s time is valuable and not to have them waste it by waiting on you.  I always make it a point to not only be on time but to be 10 minutes early so that when I arrive I have time to prepare for whatever venue I am attending and to get to casually meet those who have also arrived early.

Be Yourself – Nothing can be detected more easily than when a person is not being their true self.  Whether you are comfortable in a crowd or not, let it show.  Come to terms that you are like everyone else, not perfect, and people will admire you for that.  Don’t compare yourself with others in the room and focus on your positives and you will be just fine.

Present Yourself Appropriately – You are an individual and have a style all your own, but is it appropriate for your venue?  I was wisely given advice that when in doubt, dress to make a winning first impression.  Attending a business networking lunch, then dress as you would if you were to attend a one-on-one client meeting.   Also remember that what one person may find acceptable, others may find insulting.  Your mirror is not always you friend if you don’t have an objective outlook. 

A winning smile – Smiles are infectious and your greatest asset.  Smiling allows your confidence to show and lets other know that you believe in yourself.  I often reflect on the quote “A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever”.  Wouldn’t you want to be remembered that way when meeting others for the first time?

Small Talk Goes a Long Way – You will be surprised what you find out about others when you have an actual conversation with them.  I love to find out the little things about people because not only will this help you know about them but also what drives them to want to be successful.    Small talk is always used as a great memory jogger when meeting many people at an event.  I am likely to remember Jill who also has a chocolate lab than the “premier seller lady” who gave her 60-second commercial.  Always remember though to be positive and attentive and do not make the conversation one sided.  That is not small talk but conversation dominance.

By employing these five simple rules, I have become a more confident networker and it has led me to more prospects and acquaintances.  The rules have also taught me a little about myself as well and that has led to a renewed confidence in all my abilities.  Next time you are out at another event, try these simple steps and let me know how they work for you.

All the best,

Lee Drozak ~ My Office Assistant