Prior to Events, and on Arrival

Do you look forward to attending networking events, and feel excited about the new contacts who you’ll meet? If you’re well prepared, you’ll feel confident – and you’ll be able to take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way during the event.

• Arrive EARLY: You can meet the hosts and sponsors of the event, and also act as a host yourself by greeting those who are arriving.

• Plan to leave LATE: This give you additional time with people, and some extended, more intimate conversations.

• SCAN The Sign-In Sheet: Learn who will be there!

• Come Prepared: Have a good pen, business cards, and other materials.

• Leave Your Phone in the car: Or at least put it on Airplane mode so you are not disturbed.

EXERCISE: Start going to more events and seminars. They are opportunities to gain shared experiences. Consider volunteering with a local organization in order to demonstrate your expertise and gain more contacts. As Ivan Misner – founder of BNI – aid, “When you network, you gotta get out of your cave.”

What two or three actions will you take this week to get out of your cave?