The Edge for February 2020
Now is a good time to brush up on your networking skills - with state’s top business networking event, the N.J. Chamber’s Walk to Washington, coming up on Feb. 27 and 28. We have asked some members of the N.J. Chamber to dish out their secrets on meeting people and developing prospects. Their answers are below (and if you want attend the Walk to Washington, you can get more info and register by clicking here.)
Go in With a Plan
Go into a networking event with a plan. How many people do you want to talk to? In what industries? Real estate? Transportation? How many cards do you want to collect? There is a strategy to networking. You need the skill to approach people and talk. It’s a skill some people naturally have and it’s a skill that can be developed at something like Toastmasters. Be efficient. You’re there to meet people and learn a little about them. You’re not there to close a deal. Make a few notes about each person you meet on the back of their business cards. Follow-up by phone, and discuss business if it feels right.
– Michael W. Leviton, Business Development Liaison, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
Have a Dialogue, Not a Debate
Have a dialogue. Not a debate. You are trying to hit on a topic that is interesting to both parties. So share information and see how you can help each other. Good topics of conversation are work, leadership, future endeavors, and collaboration. Stay away from politics, religion and race unless you can bring it up in a positive way, like diversity.
– Valerie Winslow, Director, Conference and Event Services, Office of the President, Kean University
Make Friends Now, Make Business Later
Ask questions to get to know people instead of talking a lot about yourself. If you are open to conversation, people will come to you. Become a regular at networking events. You then run into people multiple times and you slowly get to know them. Networking is not about selling your services. It is about making friends. Eventually, the business comes. Remember, networking can happen any time so never leave home without at least five of your own business cards.
– John Krulewski, Director, Expense Reduction Analysts
The Ultimate Ice Beaker: Common Ground
While networking, I try to find common ground with the person I’m talking to. That kick-starts the conversation. Once the conversation starts, I let my passion for my work shine. This gives me the boost of confidence I need to connect and build relationships.
– Kelly Blithe, Director of Communications, State Theatre New Jersey
