Networking Tip: Get the Conversation Going at a Networking Event

Here are a couple of Networking tips to help you at your next event - Alain


Networking Tip: Get the Conversation Going at a Networking Event

By Ilise Benun

Putting yourself out there and making contacts could be crucial to the success of your business. But if you're shy or if you have a hard time talking to people you don't know, networking can be next to impossible.

Here are three easy ways to get the conversation started:

1. Take charge of your table.

Whenever you find yourself at a table of strangers - at a conference or seminar, for instance - designate yourself "table moderator." Suggest that everyone introduce themselves and exchange business cards. Then listen carefully as the introductions are made, and make mental notes about the people you'd like to get to know better or follow up with after the event.

2. Use the buddy system.

Whenever possible, network in pairs. Being introduced by someone else makes conversation easier, especially if you're shy about meeting new people. Be sure to return the favor by giving quality introductions to your colleague.

3. Put your Web address (URL) on your nametag.

When you go to a networking event or conference, put your Web address on your nametag, along with your name. Not only will it be a conversation starter, it will also plant a little seed, giving people the idea to visit your website.

This article appears courtesy of Early To Rise, the Internet’s most popular health, wealth, and success e-zine. For a complimentary subscription, visit http://www.earlytorise.com.

Important Things

Today was my little girl's 3rd birthday. She has been excited about it for a while now. She has been telling us, "March 8th is my birthday," even though I'm not sure she understood just when March 8th was coming. Just that it was soon.

Anyone who has been a parent understands how amazing it is to watch little kids learn things and how they have so much fun and get so excited even over little things.

When is it that us adults lose that ability? Why do we lose it?

Why don't we have fun with the little things and enjoy life more? Sure, many of us do, but when we look at all the stress related disorders, obviously many are not.

Sometimes I think we all need to take a moment and think about the things that are important, take time out and enjoy life, and yes, even the little things.

We let her choose dinner tonight and she picked pizza, and then after we ate she opened the presents we got for her and we then spent time putting her new puzzles together. Saturday we are having a bigger party for her with a number of her friends. We'll have cake and ice cream then, and I'm going to make sure I take time to enjoy their fun, and remember that we all need to enjoy the simple things and remember what is really important.

And we need to do this all the time, not just on birthdays.

Alain