Your Networker’s Tool Kit

Paul Johnstone ©  
There are a couple of important items that every serious networker should carry, at all times:

·    Business cards
·    A pen
·    Something to write on


These are the only things that need to be taken to an event. The business cards are pretty self-explanatory. Networkers should always carry pocketfuls of these to hand over to relevant people. A pen is also useful, for jotting down any notable details about people spoken to during the function.  However there is an assumption you will have something to write on, I use a WH Smith 99p notebook that slips into a pocket easily. 

All business networking groups and networking events offer different formats and ways of networking.  Almost all groups include a method of getting you to present your business to the group.   You do this because these events usually include a number of standard elements.

Just like any business, networking events have a target market, so different groups will attract different types of people. There are many networking groups specifically for women.   As there are groups targeted at start-up businesses, as well as small or large businesses. There are groups where the members all do business with professions, so have material prepared for who the others do business with.

Format of Networking Events
It is usually possible to find out the precise format before attendance at a business networking event and this will help ensure the best use of time at the meeting. Someone will run the event and will explain what happens when- also, other attendees will help newcomers to understand what to do at the right time.

Business networking events usually start on time - business people are busy. Some events start with an opportunity to meet and chat over coffee, others start immediately with the agenda. It is important to be punctual, turning up early or on time, as being late gives an immediate and noticeable impression.

A Speaker to the Business Group
A speaker, who may be a member, is often invited to talk to the group on a topic of interest to the members. The information is targeted to the group and usually gives some help to the attendees. For example, providing information on the latest technology (e.g. blogging, auto-responders, new printers) or on business opportunities in the local area (e.g. local government initiatives and how to access them).

Speakers often provide handouts or will email details of the talk after the event. These talks are not meant to be sales pitches and usually deliver valuable information. They tend to be short, around ten to thirty minutes in length and often invite questions at the end. If there is a speaker, preparing questions before the event will help ensure a business gains the most from the topic and also provides an opportunity to build a relationship with the speaker.

60 seconds to success
Business events usually provide an opportunity for attendees to present a short summary of their business. Sometimes known as a sound bite, elevator pitch or one minute, typically between thirty seconds and one minute per attendee is allowed.


Helping Real People do Real Business Through Real Networking