APPROACH COACH!

So you're at the venue... Now what?


You've been briefed on some common mistakes- that's all well and good, but how do you put them to practical application?


Arguably, the most difficult part of networking is the initial contact... Pay attention as I coach you through the approach.


WHO IS WORTHY OF YOUR WORDS?...


The simple answer is EVERYONE. 


While you may be thinking, "how on earth is Joe Blow from Idaho going to help me in my career?" Consider the fact that you don't know who Joe Blow knows. 
When deciding who you should be conversing with, keep in mind that everyone has a network; Although Mr.Blow may not be the person you're looking to secure an "in" with, perhaps he has someone in his network that would be helpful to you. 
Keep your options open and your attention on everyone.




COMPLIMENTS: 
EVERYONE'S FAVOURITE ICEBREAKER!...


If the idea of walking up to a complete stranger with your arm extended, ready to introduce yourself with a firm handshake and a keen attitude, terrifies you- good! This is NOT how to effectively network. 
Instead, strike up conversations by offering them something of interest... and what's more interesting to people than themselves? A compliment is a great way to break the ice, without making the person feel pressured into a conversation. But, make sure your compliment is sincere, you don't want to come off as fake. No one has any interest in conversing with a phony.




STATE YOUR NAME!


Regardless of how intelligent, charming and interesting you are - without a name, you're nothing more than a fleeting conversation. Avoid being one of the many interactions that get lost in the land of amusing nightclub chats. Take any and every opportunity to introduce yourself, and get their name too! Often, people are so focused on what they're saying that they forget the name of the person who introduced themselves mere moments ago. If you don't remember a persons name, they are essentially non-existent in your network. Get it, repeat it - remember it!