Great article. I think AJ’s point that digital is more important than the business card is valid, but what about a combination approach? A business card that not only carries your contact details, but prominently displays your online presence. So many cards don’t and this always stands out for me.

Absolutely agree on following up ASAP. I try and make it a habit to do the next time I’m at a computer, or even on my phone on the way home. That way the people you met and their stories are fresh in your mind.

A simple tip I have, and it really is simple, is to repeat the person’s name. I still find the hardest thing in a room full of noise and buzz to hear the name correctly before the card transaction occurs. Especially if somebody else joins and you are set to do the introduction! Eek. Repeating the name back means you physically remember it a lot more easily and they can correct you if it’s wrong.

A simple saving grace…

Cheers,
Attie

Yes, the going digital idea is great – but I suspect it won’t work for all industries or people. Or for those people who don’t believe in backup!

I really like the idea of having a story to help you stand out – I’m going to try that one!

thanks for commenting.
Mel

GREAT post with some really useful tips! You’re probably going to shoot me but…I’ve recently started breaking your golden rule “Always have business cards”.

Recently I’ve started saying “I’ve gone digital and I’m managing all of my connections online”, which is a little bit of a crazy approach but makes you stand out from the crowd. The key to making this work is to get their card and follow up with your details within 24 hours – and since most people don’t do this, you’re already standing out from the crowd. It’s risky, not for everyone, but I’ve been putting it to good use and it’s working great for me.

The other thing I’d suggest is having a story. Networking is a 2 way street so whenever you go to an event, have something interesting to say rather than the usual “this is who i am, this is what i do” spiel. It makes you more interesting and helps you stand out from the crowd – which is a key to establishing meaningful business relationships.

Keep up the great work Mel!

AJ~

I don’t officially have any financial criteria but I want to make sure it’s value for money. Again, it depends on who is going to be there and what I am going to get out of the event. I’m not a big fan of the $100 breakfast or lunch, but have forked out that much for a speaker I wanted to hear – for example.

Do you have any financial selection criteria? For example I went to a breakfast recently that cost $25 on the day (no worries, nice breakfast) but seemed totally geared to getting me to shell out $2k for a year’s worth of similar events. Do you have any traps for the unwary to watch out for?

Also love to hear others’ stories of their best value networking events. (Value doesn’t have to be client acquisition, can be stuff learned, etc.)