BUSINESS-TIPS Content

During the course of a conversation at a networking event, use the other persons first name two or three times.

Keep your business cards in the breast pocket of your coat, a shirt pocket, so they are easy to access and in good condition.

Rather than telling a new contact all about yourself, spend your time asking them questions. Its amazing how much youll learn.

When giving business card, be careful when dealing with people from outside North America as many cultures treat them with very high regard.

After the person has shared something with you, ask them another question about what they just said.

After you meet someone for the first time, record information that will give you something to talk to them about the next time you see them.

Give the person 3 to 5 seconds of eye contact and then look away briefly before returning your focus to them again.

Prepare yourself physically and mentally for the event. Dress appropriately. Bring business cards. Turn your phone off or set it to vibrate.

Always keep one hand free to allow yourself to shake hands with people. Remember youre there to network.

Make a decision about which organizations. Decide the ones you should join and the ones you dont have to join in order to gain value from the events.