I attended the Woodinville Chamber of Commerce networking meeting last week. The host made the comment about setting a goal of setting one appointment during the event. I thought a lot about this and he was absolutely correct. As we did the speed networking event, I started to look for an opportunity to set an appointment. One came up that was not expected and I jumped at the chance. I’m not sure if it will go anywhere, but we’ll see. In addition, we had some serious discussions about how to build relationships. Here are my 2.5 tips from that discussion.

Tip 1 – Be a regular. People want to see your face. So many times, someone will show up and then never be seen again. You need to attend regularly so people get to see you.

Tip 2 – Don’t go after business at the first meeting. Listen. Talk. Be genuine. Get to know the other person, and let them get to know you. Set up a meeting outside of the networking event to get to know each other better (sounds like dating!).

Tip 2.5 – Have a follow up strategy in place to go after the business. This is one area that I have been developing personally. My follow up strategy isn’t perfect yet, but I’m working on it. The only thing I’m consistent in right now is a Thank you card I send to each new person I meet. It can be better, which is why I’m working on it.

If you have any suggestions, I’d love to hear them!