15 Steps to Networking Success - First Contact to First Meeting

Not many people really like networking. What should you talk about? How much should you talk? What questions should you ask? What's the best way to cement the relationship?

Well you're in luck! It's easier than you think. Just follow these 15 steps...

Ask the potential contact what they do.

Listen carefully to their description of their job or company and pay attention for anything that suggests they are having difficulty with their business.

Summarize what they just said back to them. Comment on something that you find interesting.

Ask a question related to their business; give them a chance to teach you something.

Thank them and ask for a business card.

Do not talk about yourself or your business.

When they ask about you or what you do, give them a succinct memorable answer that you have prepared ahead of time and memorized.

Give the contact a business card when they ask for one.

Thank them and tell them that it was interesting conversation.

But that's not all -- you've got to follow up or your great first impression will be forgotten by the second cup of coffee the next day.

Send an email the next day -- keep it short.

Mention something you thought was interesting from the conversation.

Either ask an open-ended question or give them a link or referral to something that they might find useful -- create a relationship of obligation; either of them to you or of you to them -- something that legitimizes your correspondence and keeps it going. Remember, people like to help others. If you ask the contact for some information that gives you a reason to repay them later and that means continuing the relationship.

Wait for them to follow up, when they do, suggest a meeting in person to learn more about their business.

Before you call, send an email specifying what day and what time you will call.

Call to confirm the meeting.

First contact to first meeting in 15 easy steps -- now go out there and start networking!