Networking at Events

“The key is to keep it simple. This is NOT a sales pitch. This is just a “getto-know-you” request. Make it easy for them to say “yes.”

By Lorianne Vaughan Speaks

When the management team met

to discuss this issue of Success Champion Magazine, our focus is on the upcoming Summit taking place in Arlington, Tx in September. Donnie asked me to change gears a bit and write about networking at events. Since there may be some of you streaming the event, I will talk about networking both in-person and virtually.

Virtually –

Over the last 18 months we have been limited to this way of networking whether we are in a Zoom meeting, Summit or webinar. If you have the option to click on the participant’s list (which will pop up on the right hand of the screen, jot down EVERYONE’S name. If you don’t have that option, however their name is listed within their “box” – write their name down! Throughout the meeting, take notes as to what they do, how they showed up and if they would be an ideal client for you. After the meeting is over, I go into LinkedIn and request to connect. (Depending on your platform of choice it may be another platform.) I do so with the following note: Hi (name) - I saw you on the (event name) call... and a few people have said we need to connect. I thought I would reach out to see if you were open to the idea. No agenda, no pressure, no expectations! Lorianne The key is to keep it simple. This is NOT a sales pitch. This is just a “getto-know-you” request. Make it easy for them to say “yes.” From there (if it makes sense) – see if they are open to a quick chat… (again – NOT a sales call). As I network with people, I am looking for people that I can truly help – not just to make a sale. Build the relationship first! That – in and of itself – will make you memorable. A while ago Donnie said he always asks, “What would make this meeting (call) a success as far as you are concerned?” I love this! It shows that you are wanting this to be of value to them!

In-Person –

This is coming back! - as is evidenced by the Success Champion Summit coming in September! As you attend any event, scan the room for those that look like they would be in your “tribe” or who fit your ideal demographic.

Just go introduce yourself!! Make a connection. Find out what they are about and what they need. Do NOT sell! Just know YOU need to do the follow up afterward, if warranted. Do not just go handing out your business card to everyone and sit back waiting for a call.

If you get their card, take the time to write a note on the back of their card about what you discussed (or promised to send them) so you remember when you get back to the office. And follow up within one to two working days! Usually, if you have a free guide or content that is of interest to them, they will be quick to give you their contact information. Once again – make it easy for them to say “yes.”

Now I admit, I hate to “work a room” but I do make it a point to sit next to someone new after each break. This way you touch more people. If you have someone that wants to hang with you the whole time (and they aren’t a downer) bring them

along – make the introductions for them as well. You might be rolling your eyes at me saying I am too nice – but they will remember how you made them feel. And, in his book Your High Vibe Business Donnie says networking is “one thing and one thing only: growing other people’s businesses. So – be of service!

In closing, I will say you can actually touch way more people in a virtual setting unless there is an attendee list given out at your in-person events. And, in this day and age, it is very rare due to privacy restrictions. Whether you ever do business in the future be a champion for their business and it will eventually come back to you. Lorianne Speaks is an expert in the area of Speaker/ Author/Podcaster support. She amplifies the visibility of Authors/Speakers/Messengers while they do what they love - SPEAK! Lorianne has helped spearhead multiple best-selling book campaigns - editing, proofing, through to launch and social media marketing to help authors create buzz and momentum throughout the social media platforms and increasing their message WorldWide. Lorianne and her team have made it their mission to empower these messengers to deliver their message by handling the rest of the details! https://www.LVSConsultingServices.com.

“Do not just go handing out your business card to everyone and sit back waiting for a call.”