Networking at a Conference
I’m honored to have received the National Speakers Association Chair’s Award for Distinguished Service at NSA Influence, our annual conference.
The award recognized our efforts for leading the Ambassador Program (formerly the Buddy Program!) at our conference, called Influence. The AP allows NSA Members that have attended the conference in the past to serve as mentors for first time attendees.
Lots of value, laughs, and friendships there! And hopefully more registrations at Influence next year, more memberships, and more business growth.
I’m thankful to partner with an incredible committee that made it happen including Corey Perlman, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), Patrick Donadio, MBA, CSP, MCC, and Charles Heasley. Special thanks to Mark Hunter, past committee member, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of CEO Jaime Nolan, CAE Board Chair CAE Meridith Elliott Powell, CSP, CPAE and Director, Member Experience Darryl Jackson.
Here are some networking best practices I was reminded of as we spoke to about 400 professional speakers in the Ambassador Program.
EVEN PROFESSIONAL SPEAKERS CAN USE HELP
You would think speakers would have no problem finding their way. Truth, not all speakers are extroverts (which doesn’t always matter) and we could all use direction and a friend. Tough being the new kid.
IT’S A WE THING, NOT A ME THING
Make conversations collaborative by using WE language. “How can we be helpful to one another?”
HAVE A FOCUSED STRATEGY
What are your goals for the conference? How are you going to achieve them?
ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THEM
Many speakers tend to be completely focused on themselves. (Harsh, but I’m a speaker so I know!) It’s difficult to connect with people that don’t show genuine interest by asking questions. So, ask them!
COMMUNICATE CLEARLY
Be detailed about your topic, focus, target market, and a “soft” ask. “Ultimately, I’d like to meet…”
COLLECT IDEAS
Take notes in a small pad or on whatever technical gadget you’re using. Keep your notes short, sweet, and in one location if possible.
ORGANIZE AND SCHEDULE NEXT STEPS
Review your notes immediately or ASAP after the conference, event, or whatever. Then, compile a list of action steps, put them in priority order, and schedule the time in your calendar for each action item. Otherwise, you won’t put your new ideas into play.
FOLLOW UP
What promises did you make? Who will you schedule time with? What are your next steps? Again, ASAP.
STAY IN TOUCH
We’re typically onto the next thing as life continues as we left it before the conference or event. What will be your “staying in touch” strategy?
Whether you’re attending your first conference, next conference, or upcoming business networking event, use these tips as a reminder of how to get the most value and make the most connections.
Straight from the files of the Buddy Program!
WHAT IS YOUR POST-EVENT BEST PRACTICE?
Ready to see how Knock Out Networking can help you and your sales team generate more prospects, more referrals, and more business?
If you’re interested in booking Michael Goldberg to speak, train, or coach around networking, referrals, and recruiting goals, contact us at Info@KOnetworking.com
