Whether you are looking to close a real-estate transaction or prospecting to teach tennis lessons, here are some simple rules to follow when Networking:
RULE #1 - The most important thing is to TAKE THE FOCUS OFF YOURSELF. Focus on helping others achieve their goals. Then, they will be more likely to help you achieve yours.
RULE #2 - Do not be long winded about what you do. On Sean Harry's December 19 blog, he outlines my 4 Step Process for an Elevator pitch, http://orcms.com/blog/?p=49. Four simple sentences in 30 seconds. No one has the patience for a dissertation.
RULE #3 - When you meet people for coffee, do not make the meetings too long. 30 minutes should be plenty of time to figure out how you can help each other.
RULE #4 - Starbucks can be a good meeting place because there are many centrally located. The downside is that they can be loud, music blaring, without many places to sit down. Finding a local coffee spot near your area that is not a chain usually gives more room with a relaxing, non-threatening atmosphere. A good example is the Beveland Street Coffee House in Tigard, Oregon located at 7387 SW Beveland Street. They have great muffins, coffee, and at a reasonable price. They even have a fireplace. There is probably something similar in other areas as well.
RULE #5 - Follow through on your commitments. If you say that you are going to make an introduction, follow through and do it. No one trusts a flake. Do what you say you are going to do. Also, after the meeting, write a brief follow up e-mail that you enjoyed the meeting and that you look forward to helping your networking partner in the future.
With that, we throw another log onto the fire.
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