In the world of networking, there is a sea of suspects, but the question is, how you can tell the prospects from the suspects. How much time have you spent at networking events overinvesting your time with people who unbeknownst to you are unqualified to purchase your product or service? It has happened to all of us.
The tragedy in this experience is not only the likelihood of a lost sale but the loss of time that could have been invested with a more qualified prospect. Everyone networks, but not everyone networks well. What separates the amateurs from the pros is that not only do they know how to qualify; they know how to do it with style.
Here is an interesting exercise for you to try at the next networking event you attend. You know who the pros are and you can easily spot them working the room. They are the ones who know that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason, to listen twice as much as we talk. The pros know that asking open ended questions that are specific will give them the information they need to determine whether the person they are speaking to is a viable prospect. In situations where there are many people to meet in a short period of time, asking open ended questions that might create interest in the products or services that you offer will help you determine if the person you are networking with is a likely candidate for your product or service. Never forget that while you are qualifying your prospect, most likely your prospect is also qualifying you.
Networking is kind of like playing chess, each party is trying to move the other toward their own objective, but just like any good chess match, the person who controls the center of the board, usually wins. In the game of chess, while the rook may be a powerful piece, in the game of networking, it is the rookie who does not have the advantage. Many people dread the idea of going to networking events but when viewed as a game, networking can be fun. It is opportunities to not only sharpen your skills but be entertained and educated watching the efforts of others. Get out there and get in the game and remember, your mother was wrong, talk to strangers and you will only be two minutes and two people away from your next referral.
Rhonda L Sher: The Sloganator Rhonda L Sher was born talking. She fell in love with words as a child and has never stopped communicating since. Her father once commented that she was vaccinated with a phonograph needle. Not only has Rhonda inherited her father's humor, but it's that quick wit that has become the signature that has helped propel her clients to stardom.Acclaimed Keynote and workshop leader, Rhonda has authored two books, "The 2 Minute Networker" and "The ABC's of LinkedIn," "Get LinkedIn or Get Left Out" as well as numerous action guides, articles, workbooks, jingles and corporate slogans.
In addition to writing, Rhonda uses her gift of gab as a featured keynote speaker, consultant and corporate trainer throughout North America. She has successfully taught hundreds of business men and women on the art of business networking and written hundreds of elevator pitches and slogans.Rhonda's greatest talent lies in her ability to create fabulously catchy slogans that are memorable, upbeat, easy to repeat and create instant brand identification. In addition to the books, audio and video, Rhonda creates slogans and taglines for her clients which are memorable, bring them business and make them, money. She works with you to create a corporate slogan for your business that sets you apart from your competition. Her creativity and energy will tap into your customer's mind and have your phone ringing off the hook with new business.
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