by Sharon Hiebing | May 12th, 2010
We go to network events to meet new people who may become potential clients or referrers. However, what you do after an event is just as important as what you did at the event. So here are 3 techniques you should know to maximize your post-networking event results:
1. The Business Card Dilemma - Most of us return from an network event with quite a few of these (some with way too many, which is counter-productive), but no idea what to do with them. So they sit on your desk gathering dust and the opportunity is lost. I once heard that every business card you get has the potential of being worth $500 in business, so getting a plan for these is essential.
I personally send anyone who has their address on their business card a note (handwritten or you can use a printable greeting card online service like my company’s) telling them how much I enjoyed meeting them, that I hope we can continue to get to know each other better in case there’s a way for us to do business with each other or refer business to each other, and then I make a suggestion that we might want to get together for coffee or lunch so we can learn more about each other’s business. If they don’t have an address on their card, then I call them and say the same thing.
2. Promises Made – If you happen to meet someone at an event who expresses an interest to learn more about your services, who needs a referral to someone you know, or wants to meet with you, then if you told them you will follow up, make sure you do so!
It’s amazing how many times I’ve told someone at an event that I’d like to learn more about their product, handed them my business card, and then never heard from them. And if you are fortunate enough to be in the position of being a connector for others, it’s a golden opportunity to further your relationship with both parties.
3. Build a Relationship – In the end, realize there is a natural timeline associated with everyone you meet. They may not buy from you immediately, or ever. But if they sense you are sincere about getting to know them and you help them by referring others to them, then you never know how or when that person will help you grow your business.
Do you have a post networking event plan?
