FIVE TIPS AND TRICKS FOR COCKTAIL NETWORKING

The good weather is back and invitations for networking activities are abounding in your inbox., you are uncomfortable walking into a room to introduce yourself to strangers.

“Not easy Julie,” the participants in my “Networking to build lasting relationships” workshop tell me. Even for many seasoned professionals, who have no difficulty “selling their stuff,” walking through the door and introducing themselves to a group of strangers is out of their comfort zones.

Here are five tips to help you make an entrance with confidence and credibility.

1. When entering, do not head for the bar or the couches.

Do not go in search of food and drink.

You are not invited because the host thought you would be “a little peckish” or “a little thirsty.”

If necessary, eat a “little something” beforehand.

2. Check your first impression and all the elements listed in this previous post.

If you are not sure what these elements mean, ask those close to you for feedback and adjust accordingly. See it. This is the basis.

Whether you agree or not with this analysis of yourself in a few seconds, you are judged from the outside in.

3. Arrive like an expected star.

Be happy to be there and be sure that others will also be happy to meet you or see you again. You have a lot to offer. You may be the rare gem you’re looking for or have the solution you’ve been waiting for.

“Wasn’t it a good day?” » Pretend. Be the ray of sunshine everyone is waiting for. Here’s how :

Before entering the building, when you get out of the car or public transportation, put yourself in a positive state of mind. Smile.

Enter proudly; your shoulders are back, your head is straight, you are looking ahead, towards the future.

Walk energetically, without being in a hurry. Like the star backstage before entering the stage, greet everyone as you pass. They are all potential new contacts.

Once you have passed the arch of the room door, take a small step to the right. Stop! Stop. “Really Julie? » Yes, yes, really. Madonna says “Vogue”, Julie says “Pose”. To the right of the door, take a short break. Your arms are relaxed on either side of you, like the star on the red carpet.

Take a brief look around the room, looking for those you know, those you want to meet, or a small happy group having fun. Also look for people with relaxed and open non-verbal language.

You will be seen by everyone who glances at the door. Seduced by your “Star Entrance”, the others think “Who is that? Should I know him? I’m going to go introduce myself.”

Admit it… Even in face-to-face meetings, you sometimes crane your neck to see who is coming and are drawn to those who enter with fluidity and pride. Without arrogance of course.

With this passage in the room provided for the networking activity, those who know you will be happy and quick to come towards you or to signal you to join them.

4. Another option for making a connection is to stand by the door and assume the role of host to welcome the next one to arrive.

Turn around to the person and introduce yourself with your first name, your last name and your position in relation to the activity. “Hello, Julie Blais Comeau, I have been a member of the Quebec Business Women’s Network since 2015. And have you been a member for a long time? » Together you move forward to clear the entrance, while it presents itself. There you go, you have just added another acquaintance to your network.

5. If you prefer the more casual approach, this is for you.

Make your entrance and walk around seeking inviting eye contact.

Your approach is that of a quiet and happy stroll. You are confident. When you establish this gaze meeting, stop in front of the person or group. Ask for permission “Can I join you?” »And off we go, for one or a few other new connections.

Your arrival could very well be the lifeline for someone who had difficulty leaving a person who had just adopted them. After the usual introductions and polite chatter, the castaway will finally be able to give their hand to go towards other people.

This approach to eye connection also works when you come across a single person, who like you is looking to connect. She will be delighted to meet you and get to know you better. Isn’t that what networking is all about?

Now that you’re in, wondering how to make your elevator pitch? This previous post Building Your Elevator Pitch will guide you.

1, 2, 3, go, head up, shoulders straight, smile, come in and network!

Are you in a sticky situation? This blog is at your service. Write to me at julie@julieblaiscomeau.com. Your situation may enlighten other readers.

Translated Published April 27, 2017 lesaffaires.com (c) Julie Blais Comeau