Networking -beyond the exchange of business cards

Excellent and timely article on networking by Roy Shepherd on Training Zone (http://www.trainingzone.co.uk/cgi-bin/item.cgi?id=196010).

A note of caution –it’s the quality of the interaction rather than the quantity of business cards that determine the effectiveness of networking.

On occasion two or three meaningful conversations can lead to one firm opportunity rather than a collection of six or sixteen business cards.

Some networkers suggest that when you meet someone, you should give them two of your business cards, rather than one, as they may then give your card to another of their contacts. There is a danger with the two card offer, as it can result in both your business cards being discarded, as the recipient has no interest in your business and decides against passing on your card. If, however, you are asked to give additional cards, as I was recently, this is definitely worth doing, as there is a high likelihood of your card being passed on, NOT binned. My recent request for additional cards came from a consultant I met a few months ago and we are both members of a business network. No bookings as yet from giving additional cards, but I would not be surprised with enquiries from this referral.

Continue to shake more hands, exchange more cards and -yes, improve the quality of our discussions when networking!

Veronica
Website: www.executive-solutions.co.uk

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