Anyone who has read my articles will know I’m a serial networker, and this week was no different. I attended three events and as I stood opposite person after person, chatting and having fun, I started to see a pattern.
I would switch off and disengage mentally with the people who launched into their ʻelevator speechʼ or, in any way, started to try and sell me on who they were or what they did. I realised I just didnʼt care.
I don’t care what people do, until I know who they are. At these recent events, the interactions I enjoyed were with the people I got to know and make a connection with. They were the ones I followed up with.
When you’re out at an event and you’re in the ‘meet up’ phase – don’t sell, just be you. At this point all people want is to get to know you. Of course the problem is, the first question most frequently asked is, “What do you do?” But it’s a trick so donʼt fall for it. It is asked purely out of habit and politeness.
Remind yourself that no-one really cares this early in, and make your answer brief. It’s also good to practice ending your quick response with a question for them. One which doesn’t invite a sales spiel, but shows you’re genuinely interested in finding out more about them.
I’ve heard some fabulous alternate ‘opener’ questions at different events, and my top 5 are below. Try them to help yourself think outside the square at your next business or marketing event. When your introductions to new people begin more creatively, I find the results are far more rewarding.
1. What do you spend the majority of your time doing?
2. How do you or your business make a difference?
3. What are you passionate about?
4. Do you have friends or family members who own or operate a business?
5. What’s exciting in your life at the moment?
Maybe you have some other good openers? Share them with us!
SNOBSpecialist Kirsty Spraggon is a speaker, coach and author. Known for her expertise in building relationships that assist you to increase your sales, networks and connections for life and business success. Visit this author's website.
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Fantasic article Kristy and so true.
At networking functions and when I meet prospective clients for the first time, I tend to phrase a question along the lines of “So what drama’s have you had to deal with today”. I seem to be able to relate to a range of dramas from the kids, the car, traffic, a collegue, something thats broken etc and everyone always has an answer. And it gives me just a little insite to the person and the relationship begins to be built on empathy.
That is fabulous I will add that to my suggestion list of questions to ask besides ‘what do you do” Thanks k x