Networking

The calendar has once again rolled over to a new year. Hopefully, you took some time in the last quarter of 2011 to evaluate your business model and strategies to enter 2012 with a solid plan for growth. If I were to ask you to list the important components of your growth plan, would you list networking?

I have to confess, I've had those moments of checking my daily calendar only to realize, "Oh shoot, I have that social thing after work today." Networking events should not be something you attend on a whim or forget about til the last minute.

When coaching a client on business strategy, we often begin with establishing their goals. Knowing the goals is critical in designing the plan to get there. Without a goal, you wander aimlessly. Before attending a network event, it is a good idea to have a goal.

Here we are, tip 4 into our 12 tips to improve your business-building success at networking socials and events. Today's tip will stretch you a bit out of your comfort zone, but is critical. It is going to sound simple - but you'll be surprised how many people don't intentionally do it.

We are 5 posts into our 12 tip series on transforming your results from networking socials. Up to this point you've; 1. Decided you want to get more from business-networking events 2. Did your homework prior to attending 3. Have a goal to make quality connections, not focus on quantity 4.

Cinderella and my wife have both been attributed as saying, "One shoe can change your life." I, on the other hand, believe that, "One good question can change your life." At least when it comes to getting to know a new connection.

Often, a flash of brilliance comes upon us at just the right time and we think of the perfect thing to say at exactly the right moment. However, for most of us, nothing takes the place of preparation and planning.

No one wants to be "that guy." You know, the guy who is not aware of the body language of those around him/her and goes about doing his thing regardless. At networking events, reading the body language of those you are talking with is a key component to building relationships.

I spent several years as Vice President with a technology company that was based in Toronto, but has offices all over the world. I did a lot of traveling in those days (it was before we had our children) and I got to meet people from all walks of life.