Calming Network Nerves

We are delighted to bring you networking tips from Derbhile, Making Words Work for Your Business (www.writewordseditorial.ie).  WriteWords is an editorial and copywriting service, specialising in articles, press releases, web content and media advice.

1. Decide what you want the meeting to achieve from the meeting. For example, you might decide that you want to make five new contacts, or that I want to make people aware of a particular service that my business offers.

2. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Have a quick look over my elevator pitch to ensure that the points I want to make are fresh in my mind. Take the time to make sure I have all the materials I need.

3. Grooming. You may already look professional in your office clothes, but a quick spritz will give an immediate lift to your spirits.

4. Take several deep breaths. It'll keep you calm as you enter a room full of people.

5. Find a common ground. Commenting on the venue, the refreshments and the size of the crowd is often a good ice breaker.

6. Ask about their business first. It'll show how interested you are and it'll also give you an idea of whether you can be helpful to them.

7. When describing your business, describe it in terms of how you can help them. Talk about the service you offer which is of most relevance to them, or talk about clients with similar business that you have helped.

8. If you're new in business and don't have a business card, take along a one-page precis of your business, with your contact details and a brief description of what your busines does.