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 …
12 tips for introverts from an introvert who wrote a best-selling book on networking Read More »
First impressions are everything. Get it right, and everything becomes easy. Get it wrong and you are pushing water uphill with a sieve. So, how do you make a great first impression?
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 …
How to respond to impromptu questions at networking events Read More »
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: What’s the best way to describe what I do when networking? Read More »
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 conquer my nerves when networking? Read More »
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: How can I get more confident when working the room Read More »
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: 7 simple tips to help you memorise people’s names Read More »
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 to help others remember your name Read More »
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 …
Business Development Clinic: How can I make myself more memorable at networking events Read More »
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 …
