Leaving a Lasting Impression

Have you ever collected business cards at a networking event, only to find that when you go to follow up the next day you can’t remember who many of them were? Or you had an enjoyable conversation with someone but you just can’t remember the name of their business?

Here is a scarier question. How many times have you been the person someone has forgotten? How many business opportunities have you lost because you have blended into the crowd?

Your networking needs to go beyond handing out your business cards, it needs to be about making a lasting impression and building rapport so a relationship can be built over time.

Here are 5 ways to ensure you leave a lasting impression at every event you go to.

1. Be Engaging
When talking to people be present, maintain eye contact, show an interest, ask relevant and thought-provoking questions, listen attentively and respond quickly. Always ask about their business and what they do, listen for points you have in common this will help with rapport building and will help them to remember you. Don’t talk about yourself until they ask what you do (and they naturally will) then you will have their attention.

2. Look to Add Value
When you are speaking to people be thinking of how you can help them or add value to them. Is there someone at the event you could introduce them to? Do you know anyone who could help solve a challenge they have? Do you know the person they want to connect with? Could you suggest a good alliance for them?

3. Be Unique
Stand out through your appearance, be impeccably groomed, wear bright colors, an interesting tie, distinctive jewelry, a nice perfume or cologne. You do not have to be too out there, you just don’t want to blend in. Gentlemen, take the time to shave. You can’t imagine how quickly you can warm people to you or push them away.

4. Openly Participate at Events
A lot of networking events give you the opportunity to participate in discussion ask questions and give input. Use this opportunity to showcase your knowledge. It is not advisable to monopolise the conversation or say something just for the sake of saying it. You want to share an intelligent point, ask a good question, use a relevant analogy as this will show your professionalism and expertise and can show a practical application of what you provide. Raising a good point and sparking more in depth discussion can be a fantastic way for people to remember you.

5. Use Memory Joggers for Key Information
People aren't going to remember long descriptions of what you do, or likely even your infomercial. People will at best remember a few key things about you; your name, business name, industry and perhaps your specialty and location. To assist people in remembering these points use them in conversation as much as possible. For example there is a story behind the name ConnectWorking, perhaps there is with your business name or logo, a stand out client testimonial. Use anything that can reinforce your details to people.