New Networking Mixer Protocol

Just wanted to give everyone an update on a simply fantastic event Linda and I attended a few nights ago. It was put on by a local networking group here in Las Vegas. The venue was set high atop the Mandalay Bay in one of their executive rooms. The view from the penthouse suite was SWEET!!! It really made you want to get to know the people who were invited to attend the gathering.
In particular we met a few people that made our night. This is the focus of my blog. In the past we've all been told to go into networking events and blast through all of the would-be prospects and then go home. IMPERSONAL!!!! At the end of the night you almost feel dirty. You've gone in to wipe your mouth off on the sleeve of whomever was near you and then you've left without so much as a thank you or even stayed long enough to have a smoke. (Pardon the metaphor)
But networking has turned into this really sleezy exercise in getting phone numbers and hopefully contacts.
I'm here to dispel the notion that networking is a terrible way of getting contacts. It can be a fun and rewarding time spent making new relationships and promising business associations.
Here are some tips on how to turn a bad date (networking mixer ) into a romatic relationship.
1. Look for the right person
2. Look for the right person looking for you.
3. Spend more than a minute
4. BMFM
5. Followup

1. The Right person- Physically, posturing... Is the person you want to be in a relationship with business-wise, someone who fits the build? Are they flashy, outgoing, bright looking.

2. Looking for You- Someone who is cowaring in the corner isn't looking to make connections. Look for the person who is looking for you also. It is obvious. They are outgoing and respond as you glance at them.

3. Don't look for the one night stand approach to networking. Spend some quality and quantity time with your future association. Build the relationship starting that night. At the end of the meeting give them a sincere hug or handshake. Don't be in a rush to get to the next person. You want quality relationships not quantity.

4. Book a meeting From a Meeting- Don't leave it up in the air about your next meeting with your new friend and associate. Make concrete plans to get together and let them know that you are seriously interested in being a part of their near-term and possibly long-term business life.

5. Followup- Call them when you said you would. Emails are fine but a phone call, lunch are much better. Get in the habit of staying connected. That is the only way you will be able to translate that first meeting into a series of meetings and ultimately success.

Take these tips to heart and see if they are as effective for you as they have been for me and my short networking  experience.

Sherman

Sherman Ray is a noted speaker, author and businessman in the Las Vegas area. He is founder of Diversity Networking Group and contributing writing to Red Letter Media.net leadership site. He is available for speaking engagements and can be seen at major events in the Las Vegas valley area.