When you are at a
seminar, workshop, or other networking event,
are you using it for its full marketing
potential? No? Then, here are some powerful
suggestions to make your next event a
money-making endeavor:
1. Get
Business Cards: A lot of people think
their objective is to pass out business cards
like mad. So, they run around an event, throwing
their cards in front of people and sprinting
onward to the next table. If this sounds like
you, ditch this behavior right now!
Instead, ask other
people for their cards. Ask them about their
business and hobbies. These are connections to
people. Honor that fact.
2. Be
Present: It’s so easy to check out when
another person is speaking. When you are
chatting with someone, be polite and say a few
words, and then listen to them. Who
knows, this could be your newest big client,
best friend, or spouse (hey, it
happens!).
3. Take
Notes. Now, when you return to your
table or during the next break, write notes on
the back of the business cards you just
collected to remind you about the conversation.
This will help you remember later.
4. Organize
Your Cards: When you have a little
time, place all of your cards into categories
such as a) potential customer, b) referrer, c)
vendor, d) general, or e) icky/never call in
a gazillion years. Follow up on the first
two categories as soon as you get home. Then,
follow up with the vendors and general
categories within a couple of weeks. The icky
category can be used in the cat litter
box.
5. Leave
Your Gang: If you are at the seminar
with co-workers or people you already know,
spend some time with them if you must. But make
it a priority to build some brand new bonds, as
well. Leave your gang and meet people - they
could be your best new client.
6. Follow
Up! Pay attention - this is the most
important part! When you get home, take another
day off, or set a big chunk of time aside to
follow up with the people you met. Send friendly
e-mails out to all those people in the first two
categories in step 4. Use the notes on the back
(aren’t you glad you did that now?) to add a
personal touch to each e-mail. A phone call or a
hand-written note is an even better
touch.
Use seminars and
other events to their FULL potential. Powerful
people speak at and attend these things. Yes,
you will learn amazing things to fill your
brain. But remember to fill your rolodex with
amazing people, and you’ll be astounded at the
added impact these powerful relationships will
bring you.
