12 tips for introverts from an introvert who wrote a best-selling book on networking
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12 tips for introverts from an introvert who wrote a best-selling book on networking

Did you know that between one-third to half of all people are introverts? This is quite ironic because, if like me, you are more introverted, it can often feel like you are the only person in the room that is shy or terrified of starting that first conversation. When it comes to networking, there is…

How to respond to impromptu questions at networking events
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How to respond to impromptu questions at networking events

Attending networking events and talking to strangers is a way of life for many accountants, lawyers and consultants. Being able to keep a conversation going with a stranger is an art form. In this extract from an interview with Errol Williamson in Spring 2015, I answer the question about how to respond to an impromptu…

Business Development Clinic: What’s the best way to describe what I do when networking?
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Business Development Clinic: What’s the best way to describe what I do when networking?

As a professional, we’ve all been taught (probably from day one in the job) that the best way to generate new business is by referral. After all, some recent research by the Hinge Research Institute found that 70% of people will ask a friend for a recommendation if they need the services of a professional….

Business Development Clinic: How can I conquer my nerves when networking?
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Business Development Clinic: How can I conquer my nerves when networking?

Nerves can be helpful at times – after all, they can stop you wandering in where angels fear to tread. However, they can also jeopardise your performance – particularly when out and about at a networking event. Not everyone enjoys meeting new people. In fact, many professionals avoid attending networking events because of their dread and…

Business Development Clinic: How can I get more confident when working the room
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Business Development Clinic: How can I get more confident when working the room

As you open the door, you see a room full of strangers. All talking, laughing…. your heart sinks. How will you break into a conversation? Will anyone want to talk to me? Wouldn’t people blank me if I’m not a partner? Why am I here… when I could be….? Whatever your reason for not being…

Business Development Clinic: 7 simple tips to help you memorise people’s names
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Business Development Clinic: 7 simple tips to help you memorise people’s names

Visualise yourself working the room…. How many people are you meeting at the event? 5, 10, 15 or more? Do you find it hard to memorise people’s names? It’s acutely embarrassing to forget someone’s name – and how many of us feel we are good at remembering names? In fact, forgetting people names at networking…

Business Development Clinic: How to help others remember your name
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Business Development Clinic: How to help others remember your name

Whether you are trying to come to the notice of your managing partner, or make a positive impact at a networking event, your first hurdle is to help others remember your name. After all, it’s up to the other person to memorise your name, using whatever technique works for them. I’m not sure about you,…

Business Development Clinic: How can I make myself more memorable at networking events
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Business Development Clinic: How can I make myself more memorable at networking events

I often run workshops on ‘working the room’ and I am always being asked how to make myself more memorable at networking events. In this business development clinic post, I share 4 ways of helping you be more memorable when working the room. Help people remember your name When you introduce yourself, say your first…

What’s your soundbite?
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What’s your soundbite?

I have talked before about the importance of making an impact when you introduce yourself. (See Tip: introduce yourself with impact) However, when Jon and I were meeting with a potential new client last week, we identified that she was struggling with her soundbite. Interestingly, when we asked her what differentiated her, we got a very…

Stop saying ‘fine’ if you want to develop a profitable relationship
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Stop saying ‘fine’ if you want to develop a profitable relationship

I was reading a great blog post by Dinah Liversidge on ‘is being ‘fine’ costing you business’, which prompted me to think in more detail about how being ‘fine’ is hindering your from developing your personal brand and relationships further. Dinah, in her article, examines really well the reasons why we say it. In this…

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