Being Prepared

The Boy Scout slogan of "Be Prepared" couldn't be more appropriate today. And it applies to networking more than we ever thought.

Knowing who you are talking with and their background and business makes you memorable during your conversation. Let's say you are going to meet a new contact for coffee. How do you prepare?

For example, taking a few moments to look at their website is worth the time. Also consider these ideas:

• Review the LinkedIn profile of your meeting partner. See who have in common in your networks.
• Write up a list of questions and even refer to it during your meeting (most effective in interviews).
• Again from LinkedIn: ask your common connections about the person you are connecting with. You might learn something interesting to bring up in conversation.
• Review why you are having the meeting. What's in it for both of you?
• Consider the groups or people you might refer your meeting partner to. Then do it after the meeting.
• Review their connections and ask for an introduction.

There are other things. I'm off to a leads group today and will have the opportunity to practice these ideas. I'll let you know how it goes.

Relentless

Putting on your game face

Every day that we wake up and go out in the world to engage others, is one more day of challenges. Some more challenging than others.

Friday was one of those. You're at the end of the week and there are still two more events to get to. And you just are about ready to hang it up and be absent.

Well, suck it up and go. Really.

Once you are there, things will be fine. You'll slip into it and it will happen.

How? Put on your game face.

Like athletes and public speakers, networkers have to prep themselves. Think about the arena, who your "opponent" will be, what your game plan is, how you will "score", and imagining yourself in the "win column."

Now, these are great words but they do translate well. Let's try this list if you have a bit of trepidation before heading out to an event:

• Prep yourself by dressing for the occasion. Fresh shirt or blouse, favorite tie, sharp jacket.
• Pack your business cards.
• Think about who will be at the event.
• Once at the event, slip into conversation with something simple like the weather or the menu.
• Take a deep breath and sigh or laugh before you go into the room.
• If the event has a meal, remember this ins't about eating, it's about engaging. Not that you shouldn't enjoy the meal, it's just not a priority.
• Afterward, collect cards and notes and acknowledge who you met. Bot to them and yourself.
• Good job, you did it.

Like the athlete, picture yourself in "victory."

Relentless