Jason Jacobsohn, writing on his blog - Networking Insights - reminds us of the need to think about how we might help others upon meeting new people at "networking type events/opportunities".

You can read his full article about classic networking tactics at networking style events titled " 2 Sure-Fire Ways to Walk Away with a New Relationship by clicking here.

Sometimes, we get so caught up in talking about ourselves and wanting to make our "elevator pitch" that we lose sight of one of the most important principles of networking - discovering how we might help others.

When was the last time you were in a "networking setting" at an association meeting, local civic/non-profit meeting, or business group function -- and you took the time to focus on the other person and find one way in which you could help them.

As corny as it sounds, when you first go above and beyond the call of duty in trying to determine how you might help someone else - you'll create a raving fan.

Try this next time you're shaking hands with a new potential contact/relationship:

"How can I help you?"

"If I could refer you to someone who could help you solve this issue, what type of person would that be?"

"What kind of help might you be looking for?"

"After this meeting, what should I be thinking of in terms of how I might be of assistance to you?"

I know - if you've never done this before - it might sound awkward. Try it. Test it. See what type of reaction you get.

I think you'll be amazed at how this other person will want to go above and beyond the call of duty to help YOU.

Barry

Tagged as: networking, networking contacts, networking meetings