November 21, 2016
Supersize these nuggets, then share them with others. Have fun networking!
- When you meet people at a networking event, shake hands, smile and look them in the eye. Greeting people warmly is always welcome.
- Have professionally designed and printed business cards available to give on request. Better yet, make a point of asking others for their cards . . . that way, you can follow up and not wait for them to contact you.
- Listen well when talking with others. Use your eyes, heart and brain as well as your ears to engage in a full conversation. Never look over the person’s shoulder to pick out someone “more important.”
- Take opportunities to praise people for the contributions they make. Letting them take a bow makes you both feel good!
- Make a point of regularly connecting with people on your key contact list, even when you aren’t requesting something from them. They will feel nurtured by your outreach.
- Follow up your networking conversations within a day or two (that’s why you ask for the other’s card). Graciously follow through on any agreements you make—and do it as soon as practical.
- If you’re in a conversation with people who are badmouthing others, do the reverse. Say positive things instead; “goodmouth” them as recommended by Susan Rhohan.
- Acknowledge what others do and who they are by sending cards, emails or letters. Frequently congratulate those in your networking circle on their ideas and achievements.
- Always ask people how you can help them accomplish their goals. Get specific details and follow through on what you promised. Doing that will build loyalty and trust every time!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Newsletters, Business Etiquette, A Page of Insight, Etiquette Edge and tagged etiquette tips, networking etiquette, networking tips
February 3, 2012
There are few situations that will make people squirm more than running into someone they know, and have met several times, and drawing a blank on their name.
If this has happened to you, rest assured, you’re not alone. Remembering names is something many people struggle with—and yet it’s one of the most important things you can do to connect with others. Being able to use someone’s name (and pronounce it correctly) can set you apart and show you are interested in them.
So how do you remember names when you’re introduced to dozens of people at a function or business meeting?
Start with these five tips to remembering names and you will be in great shape!
- Pay attention. First and foremost, pay attention when you meet someone. Really listen to their name and how it is pronounced. Often, when we meet someone, there is a lack of focus on what is important—such as the person’s name. We can be so busy thinking of what they are going to say AFTER the greeting, we totally miss the important details.
- Repeat the person’s name. When introduced, repeat the person’s name out loud. For example, “It’s wonderful to meet you, Tzaddi.” Use the person’s name during conversation. This will reinforce your memory, as well as make that person feel important.
- Remember a unique detail about the person. Many of us are visual learners, so associating something physical with a person will help us remember. Laura has brilliant green eyes, the greenest you’ve ever seen. Tuck that detail away, associated with her name. The next time you see Laura, you’ll notice her green eyes and it will help you recall her name.
- Repeat the name to yourself. If you’ve just met a group of people, and now you’ve stepped away, look toward the group and quietly repeat their names to yourself.
- Write the name down as soon as you can. If you are not presented with a business card, write the name down as soon as you can in a notebook or journal. This will provide a good reminder for future meetings.
You can master the name game! Once you make this a priority, it will become a habit that will put you miles ahead of the competition.
“A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” ~ Dale Carnegie.
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Posted by Margaret in Business Etiquette and tagged how to remember names, networking etiquette
