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Ways to Make Networking
Work for You
by Ivan R. Misner, Ph.D.
from the book
"THE WORLD'S BEST KNOWN
MARKETING SECRET"

Have the tools to network with you all the time: a name tag, a cardholder full of your own printed business cards and a card file to carry other people's cards.

Set a goal regarding how many people you'll meet, and don't leave until you have met your goal.

Act like a host, not a guest, at any meeting.

Exchange business cards with people you meet.

Listen and ask 5 "W" questions - who, what, when, where and why. A notable networker has two ears and one mouth and uses both of them proportionately.

Write comments on the back of business cards you collect. This enables you to remember the person when you follow up the next day.

Give a lead or referral whenever possible. If you freely give business to others, they will give business to you.

Describe your service or product in 60 seconds. Be specific, but brief.

Spend 10 minutes or less with each person you meet. and don't linger with friends or associates. Try not to get caught up with too much idle chatter.

Follow up with the people you meet. A simple follow-up letter or telephone call can mean the difference in making time valuable. If you promise to get back to someone, do it.

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