This workshop will provide participants with the insight and skills to be more effective business networkers, face-to-face and online.
The approach taken is to build on the strengths people already have and their successes. It is easier to develop what you already have than to try and develop skills that do not come easily. Being yourself is the most effective tool for business networking and building relationships.
This course will help those attending:
Appreciate the importance of networking, and different forms of networking
Understand the dynamics of communication that are specific to networking
Become more confident and assured when 'working' a room
Improve their influencing skills, especially with people who are experts and in positions of authority
'Sell' themselves and promote their company
Identify and manage their profiles using online social networking sites
Use effective follow-up to maintain active contacts and connections
Select the correct networking groups, clubs and events
Create their own personal network
1 The importance, and different types, of networking
Personal objectives and introductions
Test networking session
Examples of the importance, purpose and format of various types of networking, and benefits you can expect
2 How to work a room - preparation and strategy
Three things to know before you attend any event
Non-verbal communication and art of rapport
Breaking the ice - worked examples with practical demonstration
3 Communication dynamics in networking - the power of the listening networker
Why it is better to listen than talk
Effective questioning and active listening
Creating a natural and engaging conversation, 1-2-1 and in a larger group
4 Assumptions when networking
How to use the 'instant judgement' of others to your advantage
What assumptions are you making?
How to keep an open mind
5 Business networking etiquette
Meeting and greeting at a business networking event - approaching complete strangers and introducing yourself
Socialising: joining and leaving groups easily
Making a good first impression in 30 seconds
The use of status when networking
6 Making connections
Asking for cards, contact details and referrals
Gaining a follow-up commitment
Some tips and tricks
7 Business networking rehearsals
Practice sessions
8 Personal business networking online
Overview of different types of networking sites - there is a lot more out there than just Facebook!
Examples of creating an effective profile
Using social networking effectively - case studies and application
'Advanced' applications - blogs, articles, twitter, feeds, etc.
Online demonstration and examples
9 Building relationships - follow-up and follow-through
Maintaining a good database
Developing a contact strategy with different types and levels of contact
How to analyse your contact base