Networking Quick Tip
by Gill E. Wagner
When meeting new people at networking functions, always try to be the first to ask "What do you do?"
This will accomplish a few things:
- You will have the chance to offer assistance to your new acquaintance, such as an introduction to someone he or she should know, before talking about yourself. (Give first, receive later.)
- You will be able to customize the description of what you do to match his or her specific situation. For example, when meeting someone in manufacturing, the description of what you do -- "We create video training programs" -- might change to "We create video training programs for companies that want to decrease workplace accidents."
- Many people are uncomfortable explaining what they do. If you let them explain first, they'll get past their discomfort and be more likely to listen when it's your turn to talk. (Remember to keep your own explanations short, and return the conversation quickly to learning about them.)
Have a great week!
Gill
