| By :
Andy Grant
For many business professionals, networking events are essential business building tools. Here are some pointers to help your business truly stand out at your next networking event. 1. Use audiovisual support Something as simple as a rental projector can really help you make a splash and create an impact at your next business building event. A splash of video or even slide show images can draw more people to your booth, giving you access to more potential customers and clients. Be sure to follow up your audiovisual impact with brochures, information, or takeaway materials that your prospects can review once they've left your station. 2. Follow up with everyone It seems so obvious, right? However, this is the number one mistake people make when participating in any kind of networking or business building event. If you're going to take the time to collect data and business cards from potential clients, then it just makes sense to take the time to follow up with each person after the event. A conversation can begin with something as simple as "Hi John, this is Susan Grant. We met at the [NAME OF EVENT] this past Saturday. I enjoyed speaking with you and I know I can assist you in solving your [PROBLEM DISCUSSED]. Give me a call and let's brainstorm how we can get that issue resolved for you. The best number to reach me is [TELEPHONE NUMBER]. Talk to you soon!" 3. Focus on quality Depending on the size of the networking event you're attending, you might not meet everyone in the room. Consider that it's far more productive to have a few in-depth conversations with just a handful of potential clients, rather than simply shake hands and exchange cards with everyone in the room. Get to know the people you have conversations with - find out what their business problems are, and look for ways you can be of assistance. In these conversations, focus on quality rather than quantity - and let the other person do most of the talking. You'll learn more about them and it will make more of an impact when you speak to offer a solution, rather than simply talking about how great you and your business are. By using these three simple techniques, you are sure to make an impact with anyone you meet and thereby maximize the profitability that comes from attending networking events.
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