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by ayb |
Tony Robbins says if you want to succeed at anything, you should find someone that has accomplished what you want to do– and do what they’re doing.
When it comes to networking, the best example I can point you to is Neville. Though he’s still in college, it sounds like he knows how to work a room– he has met some top CEOs and always manages to get a photo.
Neville has met:
- Gary Ruskin, CEO of Fedex Kinkos
- Herb Kelleher, CEO of Southwest Airlines
- Elton John and Andy Roddick
- David Linger, founder of Re/Max
What I’ve Learned So Far
- Wear a nametag. Neville wears a nametag to a lot of events. Sounds silly to some, but I think this could definitely help from a psychological point of view. It is a lot easier to approach someone if you already know their name.
- Stop worrying and do it. Most people hate public speaking. That same fear of rejection seems to rank high in other situations too. It is natural– so get over it, get over there, and hand out your business cards.
- Learn how people work. In one of his books, Donald Trump recommends reading Memories, Dreams, Reflections
by C.G. Jung. Trump said it provided tremendous insight.
- Get out there. The more people you come into contact with, the more likely you will come across an opportunity. Look at it mathematically: even if you only have a 1% chance, eventually the opportunity will present itself if you meet enough people. So– go and meet some people.
- Know what you’re going to say. UC Berkeley’s career center recommends you prepare a brief, 8-10 second introduction that is “clear, interesting, and well delivered.” If you get nervous, this will help.
What’s your best tip for working the room?
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Getting past ‘the fear’ is always the biggest part. Another one I’ve found is falling in with people it’s comfortable to talk to and sticking with them despite there being no opportunity to do business.
I did this recently at an event and kicked myself. I suppose the other thing is to network regularly at different events to have your face seen.
Oh, and having the 30-second description of your business ready and practised.
I’ll shut up now.
Thanks for the tip!
I understand how easy it is to stick in an area you are comfortable with – it’s the whole “certainty” versus “uncertainty” thing. But that doesn’t make it ideal if there’s no one there to do business with.