Back in 1956 when the release of the film the King and I blasted onto to the silver screen they didn’t know that they were onto the most effective method of networking.
I just returned from a meet up with Jerusalem Business Networking Forum where the guest speaker, Ezra Butler, spoke about how to improve your networking skills. It’s the oldest trick in the book to actually care about the person you are talking to. To find a common ground to start a relationship that is mutually beneficial. Find common interests like fitness, diet, lifestyle, or hobbies and share. Instead of trying to sell them on you and your business, find out how you can help them and take action. I try to be a “connector” a business “shatchan” and I find it’s a great way to make business friends. He talked about being engaging, motivating, and fun. I agree with that but that is difficult for many people. Tell a story, offer a great quote, share some industry news, and be memorable. Pick one and it might stick.
The one I liked the most was, find a reason to follow up. It’s one thing to meet, greet, and flee. It’s another thing to remember and act upon another person’s needs.
This is basic building relationships “101” but a much needed reminder in our impersonal – text instead of talk, “I’m in a hurry and have no time” kind of world that we live in today.
Social Media was meant to be a giant cocktail party where we share information and contacts and we build trust and engage with our audience.
Let’s get back to basics.
Thanks for the clip – classic and beautiful! Some people are naturally charismatic and find it easy to network – some are shy and find it much harder. Doesn’t it also depend on the type of networking event you go to – if you really don’t have much in common socially, can you still establish a rapport? What about in Israel where there are so many cultural barriers to overcome?
Thanks Sarah,
You’ve articulated what many people believe and you have a good point. I think the bottom line is we just need to try to establish a connection to the person and not just to what he/she does. They are much more than that. We need to find the commonalities because if we try, we will find them. In Israel especially, we are one people with one destiny so you are bound to have something or someone in common.